Amnesty’s goals brought attention to a darkness
More widespread than many had previously thought:
We discovered that nations cooperated, in starkness,
Against freedom of expression, with a vigilance wrought
Of tyranny, fear of the governed, and militant action.
As the Amnesty movement grew – from a mere faction
To a “Prisoners of Conscience” petition to the UN against torture,
Its missions grew also, seeking to end the ‘death penalty.’
Benenson’s idea grew, like a candle in the otherwise dark future*
Of thousands of prisoners, released as a result of reports
By Amnesty, the media, global and local cohorts.
Then, two hundred thousand; now, millions continue their retort:
Oppression and torture of persons for speaking their minds
Must stop. Human rights are concrete and serve peaceful ends.
June Edvenson 