AMNESTY Fremantle will be holding its annual Write for Rights in support of journalists and activists worldwide at Clancy’s next week. 

Write for Rights, organised by the Amnesty Fremantle Action Group, allows attendees to write letters and sign petitions “calling for fairness and compassion” in “cases of injustice” around the world. 

AFAG spokesperson Helen O’Brien says the event is a way for those with a “strong sense of fairness and justice” to “turn that compassion into action”. 

“Every letter, every signature, every message of support adds up… when people take part, their words join thousands of others around the world, and together, they make it impossible for injustice to be ignored,” Ms O’Brien said. 

“When governments see global pressure from thousands of ordinary people, they listen… that’s the beauty of Write for Rights, it proves that humanity and hope can still cut through bureaucracy and indifference.

“There’s something powerful about seeing a room full of people writing together for someone they’ve never met, it reminds you that empathy still matters.”

• Polish reproductive rights defender Justyna Wydrzyńska.

Events like Write for Rights can “help free prisoners of conscience” and “hold authorities accountable” according to Amnesty, such as Polish reproductive rights defender Justyna Wydrzyńska who was convicted after helping a woman obtain abortion pills, and journalist Ahmed Mansoor who was imprisoned in the UAE, pictured. 

“Their courage inspires us to keep speaking up,” Ms O’Brien said.

“The people we’re supporting aren’t just names on a page, they’re real individuals who’ve lost their freedom for defending the rights we often take for granted. 

“You don’t need to be an expert or activist to make a difference, just turn up, grab a pen, and lend your voice because that’s how change starts.” 

Write for Rights will be held at Clancy’s Fish Pub in Freo on Wednesday, November 12, at 6pm.

by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER