Human Rights Defenders Party!

York Amnesty is bidding farewell to some fond friends it has made in recent months.

On March 15th we held a goodbye party for the 'Human Rights Defenders', a small group of individuals from various countries around the world where they are persecuted for their beliefs.

'It went really well,' said Patricia Bartley, organiser for the evening and York Amnesty member. 'There was about 50 people in total and they danced the night away until 2am'.

 The 'Protective Fellowship Scheme for Human Rights Defenders at Risk' has been run by York University's own Centre for Applied Human Rights since 2008.

One of the defenders this year, a lady who would like to be referred to simply as EL, said: 'I have an unwavering friendship with Amnesty International and I spoke at one of their events in York'.

Up to ten defenders a year are able to join the centre for purposes such as training, networking and rest from their problematic working lives back home.

'I am very lucky to have got this opportunity', continued El. 'I've met many other inspiring individuals and organisations'.

'I will miss the atmosphere of York. It is a historic town with nice people'

York Amnesty have monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at the Friends Meeting House on Friargate.