Thank you to AMG for these updates. If you would prefer to read them as a PDF, you can do so here.

We warmly invite you to attend the next meeting of the AI Glasgow West Group. Please come and join in our lively and friendly discussions and help us make a positive difference to supporting Human Rights around the world.

This email includes:

• Details of our forthcoming May 2023 meeting

• Excerpts from and a link to AIUK's most recent update for local AI groups

• Minutes of our local group meeting held last month; and

• A note of all our local Group's meeting dates for 2023

May 2023 Glasgow West AI Group Meeting

Thursday 11th May, Woodlands International Methodist Church, 7:30pm

The next Glasgow West Amnesty meeting takes place on Thursday 11th May 2023 at 7.30pm – 9pm in Woodlands International Church, Woodlands Road, Glasgow, G3 6LW.

Further details on Facebook - https://fb.me/e24A3jSi3e

We would love to see you there on Thursday!

Our activities for the May meeting include:

• Discussing LiftTheBan's “High Street Challenge” campaign. The aim of campaign is to overturn the ban on asylum seekers working whilst their claim is being considered

• Planning for a meeting on 14th May as a follow up to our recent successful Iftar event, which highlighted various human rights issues affecting Muslim Groups; and

• Undertaking letter writing in response to recent Urgent Actions alerts from AI.

Extract Of Local Groups' Updates From AIUK

Full details of AIUK's update for local groups can be viewed via this browser link.

This month's update from AIUK includes the following:

Stop the Cruel Bill

Rishi Sunak's government has voted to remove vital protections for those fleeing persecution and exploitation.

The cruel new immigration bill will turn its back on our responsibilities to protect the most vulnerable seeking safety, as well as many other disadvantaged people. Despite widespread criticism, the government continues to push this cruel bill, using lies and sowing division in our communities.

Call on the Prime Minister to stop the Cruel Bill now !

Here are five things you needto know about the Immigration Bill.

Celebrating 50 years of Urgent Actions!

Fifty years ago, we sent our first Urgent Action (UA).

This UA was issued on 19 March 1973 in response to the unlawful arrest in Brasília of Professor Luiz Basilio Rossi . Until that point, Amnesty's main campaigning tool had been campaigning for individuals as "Prisoners of Conscience" - defined as someone who was being subjected to a human rights violation, but "who has not used or advocated violence or hatred". However, in crisis situations it was not always possible to gather sufficient information or evidence required to meet the strict criteria of a "Prisoner of Conscience" and it was becoming clear that a more lithe technique was needed.

That initiative helped free a detained professor who opposed the military dictatorship in Brazil.

Over the past five decades, the Urgent Action Network has become one of our most effective campaign tools. Here's why:

• More than 500,000 volunteers worldwide are standing by to help those facing imminent human rights violations.
• They respond immediately with letters, emails, faxes, and social media posts.
• These actions put pressure on authorities and let them know the world is watching.
• We help protect people from torture, wrongful imprisonment, and abuse in prison.

When Urgent Actions succeed, the impact is life changing.

We thank you for all actions you've taken, and hope you will continue taking action with us.

All Urgent Actions here

Online Course Spotlight

This month our spotlight is on our People, Power and Politics course. Take this course to learn more about how to approach your political representatives and advocate for issues you care about.

We have a range of other free courses on human rights and issues that Amnesty campaigns on that you can take in your own time.

You can access them on the Amnesty Academy page here just by signing up.

You can also access the courses on Futurlearn by clicking the ‘Join with limited access' button after registering.

Further information from AIUK

Full details of AIUK's update for local groups can be viewed via this browser link.

April 2023 Updates

Amnesty International

Glasgow West Local Group

Meeting held on 13th April 2023

Present: Claire (Chair), Christine, Silvia, Mal, Neil and Andrew.

Apologies received: Kirstie, Sabrine, Merle, Jim, Sharon, Chakar and Amanda.

Welcome

Claire welcomed everyone to the meeting.

Minutes of meeting held on 9th March 2023 and Matters Arising

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

Mal updated on his recent nomination to stand for election to the Board of AIUK. He was one of four individuals nominated for the two vacant seats on the Board. His understanding is that an election will take place of AI's individual membership to determine the successful candidates. This is likely to take place in the summer.

Finance Update

No update this month as Kirstie was unable to attend the meeting.

Social Media Update

Silvia indicated that she should have more time in the coming months to further develop the Groups' website and social media presence.

Update on Scottish AI Groups' Online meeting

Andrew provided an update on an online meeting held on 21/3/23, which was organised and facilitated by Thea Ioannou, who holds the post of ‘Community Organiser – Local Activism' at AIUK.

The note of the online meeting, together with a link to the recording, had previously been circulated by Andrew on our Group's Signal channel.

Eleven people attended the meeting, from seven Scottish AI groups. There were apologies submitted by two other groups. Groups summarised their main activities and active membership. A number of groups had a particular geographic focus for campaigning. Capacity issues and limited numbers of active members was a common challenge. Questions were raised about the role of AI's Scotland office (which didn't have a representative at the online meeting) and how local AI groups might better engage with and support the Scotland Office's work and vice versa. Thea undertook to email the Scotland office about these issues. Thea indicated that there was an ongoing search for a volunteer activism representative to pick up on the work previously undertaken by Mal. (Positive comments on the work of Mal, particularly during lockdown, were made by a couple of groups).

Attendees were generally positive about the attempt to better link up the local groups and to encourage cross-group collaboration on common issues.

Thea suggested further meetings on an approximately three monthly basis.

Discussion arising from the Online Meeting Update

It was suggested that we should contact the other West coast group (Ayrshire) and invite them to one of our meetings to discuss their geographic focused-work on Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (IOPT) and explore the scope for collaboration on this issue. This could potentially coincide with some of the forthcoming anniversaries relating to IOPT, which Claire referenced. Action – Andrew to contact Arthur at Ayrshire Group re IOPT

Christine mentioned that the Ayrshire Group had undertaken work relating to supporting refugees in the Dungavel Immigration Removal Centre in South Lanarkshire. It was further suggested that the Ayrshire Group also be invited to discuss this issue with our group, again with a view to potential collaboration. Action - Andrew to contact Arthur at Ayrshire Group re Dungavel

It was noted that the other two Glasgow groups might also be interested in an invitation to such discussions, assuming the Ayrshire Group are happy to collaborate. Action – Andrew to contact Daytime and Univ Groups (following response from Ayrshire Group)

AIUK Campaign ‘Stop the Cruel Bill (Illegal Immigration Bill)

Thea from AIUK had circulated an action to the Scottish Groups relating to the above Bill. The UK Govt has stated the Bill only relates to reserved powers. Human Rights organisations are challenging this and asking the Scottish Government to lodge its own motion asking the Scottish Parliament to reject the Bill, on the grounds that it impacts on devolved matters.

Action – Andrew to consider the Group's response re potential contact with Scottish MPs / MSPs

Ukrainian Refugees Questionnaire

It was noted that a response had been sent, on behalf of the Group, to a post-grad student's request for input to a questionnaire relating to Ukrainian refugees. The draft response had been circulated on the Signal group.

May Day event

Mal provided an update on a May Day march, taking place on Saturday 29th April. Participants are asked to arrive at George Square, Glasgow for 11am, with a march to Queens Park, commencing at 11.30am. It was agreed that our Group should take one of the stalls at Queens Park.

https://www.facebook.com/events/s/may-day-march-rally-saturday-2/1222663511703130/

Following discussion of the online event for Scottish AI Groups, it was agreed to contact the other AI Groups and invite them to join us at the May Day event.

Action – Mal to confirm the AI Stall with the organisers.

Action – Claire & Mal to sort out materials for the stall and the banner.

Action – Andrew to contact other AI Groups.

Action – All Group members who can manage to attend the event on Saturday 29th April.

Iftar event

Claire provided feedback on the recent Iftar event, which had been attended by Amanda, Amjad, Kirstie, Sabrine and Claire from our Group.

The event was successful and aimed to encourage Muslim groups and individuals to work together on human rights. Alison Thewlis MP attended, as did local Councillor Alex Belic. AIUK's China Co-ordinator was also involved in the event.

There will be a follow-up event on 14th May at The Ark, Govanhill and volunteers from our group are requested to attend.

Action – Claire to co-ordinate our Group's input.

Action – Mal to speak at the 14th May event.

Action – Volunteers to contact Claire if they are able to attend.

End Israeli Apartheid

Claire highlighted a number of issues relating to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (IOPT), including a number of anniversary dates. (See details and links in the agenda that was circulated on the Signal group and at the meeting).

Action – As above, agreed to invite Ayrshire Group to share their IOPT activities with us.

Urgent Actions

Merle had provided Christine with Urgent Actions and circulated the links below. Colleagues took these away to complete at home. Others who couldn't attend the meeting are also invited to respond to these.

https://tinyurl.com/ua-afghanistan

https://tinyurl.com/ua-china

https://tinyurl.com/ua-drc

Action – All to consider responding to the Urgent Action appeals

Local Groups' Update

Claire highlighted some of the key items from AIUK's local groups' update. (Link to this previously circulated with the email for this meeting).

This included the following:

• An Online Activism Assembly being held on Tuesday 16th May 2023, which is the first in a series.

• Updates from the Europe Country Coordinators including campaign links & contacts

• AIUK 2023 Priority Campaigns: Priority Campaigns from AI

• Delivering human rights education: learn how to deliver participatory and effective human rights education by completing Amnesty UK's free short introductory course. & for more specific support Contact Amnesty UK's education team/visit page to find out more about Amnesty's education resources, training and projects.

AOB

Freedom From Torture (FFT) event

Christine referred to the undernoted FFT meeting:

• When: 27th April 6pm - 8pm
• Where: Venue: Adelphi Centre, 12 Commercial Road Glasgow G5 0PQ
• Register: via FFT's Eventbrite link

More info:

"Come along to hear first-hand accounts of the therapy offered in our Centre in Glasgow from survivors and those working with them. Fiona Crombie, Clinical Service Manager at the Centre will talk about the evolving programme of support that is offered at present as well as future plans for the centre.

Fiona will be joined by a previous service user in a Q&A session to discuss the impact Freedom from Torture has had on their life and how they have moved forward. We will also be showing videos made by survivors about their experience of beginning a new life in the UK."

Action – Group members are encouraged to attend

May meeting

– Silvia agreed to take the minutes, in Andrew's absence; Claire will organise the agenda.

Action – Silvia & Claire

Meeting of Church hall users

– Silvia agreed to attend the meeting on Saturday 13th May @ 9.30am.

Action - Silvia

At next meeting, we will discuss LiftTheBan's “High Street Challenge” campaign - new member Fatma can hopefully lead! (she presented it at England's NE Regional Conference, newly moved to Glasgow): https://lifttheban.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/LTB_HighStreetChallenge_A4_Booklet_TP_WEB_SINGLES.pdf Aim of campaign is to overturn ban on asylum seekers working whilst their claim is being considered.

Action – Claire to put this item on the agenda

Date of Next Meeting

The next meeting will take place on Thursday 11th May 2023, 7.30pm - 9pm @ Woodlands Methodist Church, 229 Woodlands Road, G3 6LW.

2023 Meeting Dates

New Members very welcome!

The Group meets every 2nd Thursday at 7.30pm - 9pm.

The meetings take place at Woodlands Methodist Church, 229 Woodlands Road, G3 6LW

For further information contact mail@glasgowwestamnesty.org.uk

• Thursday 12th January 2023

• Thursday 9th February 2023

• Thursday 9th March 2023

• Thursday 13th April 2023

• Thursday 11th May 2023

• Thursday 8th June 2023

• Thursday 13th July 2023

• Thursday 10th August 2023

• Thursday 14th September 2023

• Thursday 12th October 2023

• Thursday 9th November 2023

• Thursday 14th December 2023

BETTER TO LIGHT A CANDLE THAN CURSE THE DARKNESS

Thanks to AMG for these updates. If you prefer, you can also read them as a PDF.

We warmly invite you to attend the next meeting of the AI Glasgow West Group. Please come and join in our lively and friendly discussions and help us make a positive difference to supporting Human Rights around the world.

This update includes:

• Details of our forthcoming February 2023 meeting;
• Excerpts from and a link to AIUK's most recent update for local AI groups;
• Minutes of our local group meeting held last month; and
• A note setting out all of our local Group's meeting dates for 2023.

February 2023 Glasgow West AI Group Meeting

Thursday 9th February, Woodlands International Methodist Church, 7:30pm

The next Glasgow West Amnesty meeting takes place on Thursday 9th February 2023 at 7.30pm – 9pm at Woodlands International Church.

More details on Facebook - https://fb.me/e/24A3jSi3e

We would love to see you there on Thursday!

Our activities for the February meeting include:

• Finalising the planning for our AI Comedy Night Fundraiser at The Stand, Glasgow on the evening of Wednesday 15th February 2023. (Tickets now Sold Out).
• Considering whether our local AI Group wishes to submit any resolutions to AIUK's AGM, which takes place on 24th June 2023.
• Discussing our Group's potential participation in the Stand Up To Racism Demonstrations, planned to take place in Glasgow, Cardiff and London on Saturday 18th March 2023; and
• Urgent Actions letter writing.

Extract Of Updates From AIUK

Full details of AIUK's update for local groups can be viewed via this browser link.

This month's update from AIUK features information on the Write for Rights campaign, including information on the work of the three AI Glasgow groups' input to that campaign.
It also includes a template for individuals to write to newspapers to highlight concerns around UK Government activities and proposals affecting human rights.

Amnesty Spring Raffle

Enter the Amnesty Spring Raffle and grab your chance to feel like a winner! How would you spend £5,000? That's what's up for grabs when we draw the raffle in just a few weeks.

Tickets cost just £2 and with every ticket you buy, you're standing up for humanity.

Buy your raffle tickets online today for your chance to experience that winning feeling and you could help more people like unfairly imprisoned Ibrahim Ezz el-Dinwalk free!

Enter now

AIUK 2023 Priority Campaigns

The link below outlines Amnesty International UK's 2023 priority campaigns. This includes current campaigns you may be familiar with, such as End Israeli Apartheid and Protect the Protest, as well as new exciting campaigns upcoming this year. 
The information in the PDF will be subject to change.

Please always check the campaign pages for the most up-to-date information, or get in touch with *activism@amnesty.org.uk * and thea.ioannou@amnesty.org.uk. 

Read more

January 2023 Updates

Amnesty International

Glasgow West Local Group

Meeting held on 12th January 2023

Present: Claire (Chair), Kirstie, Neil, Merle, Mal, Amjad, Andrew and Hala.

Apologies tendered: Jim, Silvia and Sharon.

Welcome

Claire welcomed everyone to the meeting, particularly Amjad, who was attending for the first time. Colleagues introduced themselves.

Minutes of meeting held on 8th December 2022

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

Financial Update

Kirstie provided an update on the Group's finances. The major annual expenses for the group are hire of meeting hall (£252 pa, paid quarterly) and the annual affiliation fee to AIUK of £72 pa. The current balance in the Group's bank account is c.£300. Write for Rights postage expenses of £52.50 were recently incurred, with the Glasgow Daytime AI Group having agreed to cover half of that cost.

AI Collection Tins

Andrew noted that five AI collection tins had recently been passed to him by Sheena, a member of the now disbanded Paisley AI group (Sheena was referred via Alex of the AI Glasgow Daytime Group). They will be stored in the cupboard of our meeting hall and Andrew will also contact the secretary of the Glasgow Univ AI Group to ask if they want a couple of the tins. (Action – Andrew)
It was noted that AI UK had also sent us a couple of collection tins as part of the Write for Rights resource pack we requested.

Donation to Ukraine Appeal

It was agreed that the Group should donate £25 to AI's ringfenced appeal to help raise resources to contribute to human rights work in Ukraine.

Andrew forwarded AIUK's link to the ringfenced Ukraine appeal to Kirstie and she will arrange payment of our agreed donation. (Action – Kirstie)

Write for Rights Event

Claire referred to the update on our December W4R event, which had been summarised in the calling notice email for this meeting. A total of 118 individual cards and letters had been sent, covering 10 countries. Claire thanked Kirstie for helping lead the organisation of the library venue and also thanked all the volunteers who had input to the day from our own group, the Glasgow Daytime Group and the Glasgow University Group.

Thank you messages had been sent to the secretaries of the other two groups, to the head librarian (Steven Millar) and to the politician who had attended the event (Paul Sweeney, MSP). A short article on our Write for Rights event had been submitted to AIUK asking them to consider it for inclusion in their next monthly Local Groups' Update.

AIUK Local Groups' Update

Claire highlighted some of the items included in the latest AIUK Local Groups' update.

This included the date for AIUK's regional online conferences, with the Scotland AI Conference taking place on 4th March 2023. Further details to follow from AIUK.

Claire also highlighted free online course open to all AI members.

Full details of the AIUK update for local groups was circulated with the calling notice email for our Group's January meeting, and can also be viewed via this browser link.

Glasgow University Group Event

The secretary of the Glasgow University AI Group had asked our Group to provide a speaker(s) for an event they were holding on Tuesday 24th January aimed at recruiting new activists to their group. The event will focus on having an open discussion with their members about the background to AI, campaigning, events, current Human Rights issues, etc.

It was agreed that Mal, Hala and Neil would all attend and contribute to leading that discussion with the University Group members. Andrew will forward contact details and information on the discussions he has had with Alejandra, secretary of the University AI Group, regarding potential content and format of the event. (Action – Mal, Hala and Neil)

Update on Invitation to AI Scotland Director to attend meeting with Glasgow AI Groups

Andrew indicated that Naomi McAuliffe, AI Director, had been invited in early November to attend a meeting to discuss how the Glasgow AI groups can best contribute locally to AIUK's Strategic Framework priorities. The secretaries of the other two Glasgow AI Groups had indicated they would be keen for all the Glasgow AI groups to be invited to attend.

The invitation asked Naomi to speak on issues our own Group had identified as being particularly keen to engage with, such as the Human Rights Act, both in relation to protesting the changes set out by the UK Govt and, separately, in seeking to contribute to the Scottish Govt's proposed Human Rights Bill consultation.  The invitation email suggested Naomi might speak on how best our local groups can contribute effectively to these and other broader AI campaigning priorities.  For example, how can we better link our work and resources to supporting AI's Scotland office, as well as joining with other organisations locally and nationally, including those affiliated to the Human Rights Consortium Scotland.  It was also suggested that members would likely find it helpful to have a more general overview of the role of AI's Scotland office, links with AIUK and with local groups across Scotland.  In addition, Naomi would, undoubtedly, have other issues that she would wish to cover.  The suggestion was for a fairly informal discussion, with Naomi providing an overview and context, before opening up a more general chat with members of the three Glasgow Groups.

Naomi had indicated in early December that she would be willing to attend, however, there had been no further response yet to the follow-up email of 14th December, asking if the group's meeting dates in February or March suited.

Andrew will once again contact Naomi to try to get a date for this in order to give sufficient notice to the other Glasgow AI groups and members. (Action – Andrew)

Comedy Night Fundraising Event

Jim had previously confirmed with The Stand that the event would take place on 15th February. Tickets will be sold online by The Stand, with all ticket sale proceeds going to AIUK's charitable wing (also meaning there would be no tax implications).

Once ticket sales are live, we will be informed by The Stand. It is likely tickets will sell out fast, given the indication of the comedians that will be performing on the bill.

Publicity for the event would include our social media (Action - Silvia) and contacting the secretaries of the other Glasgow Groups with details (Action – Andrew)

It was noted that there will likely be minimal need for our input on the night, as The Stand will cover door issues, etc.

The one area we will need to work on is in relation to organising a cash raffle on the night. This will be the only mechanism for raising funds for our local group.

It was discussed that many people attending the event may not be carrying cash and it was suggested that using our Paypal account may be an option, dependent on Wifi connectivity (Action – Kirstie to consider).

It was also suggested that we could urge attendees to bring cash for the raffle via social media. (Action - Silvia to consider).

Mal indicated that he may have books of raffle tickets that could be used. (Action – Mal).

Neil, Merle and Andrew offered to donate raffle prizes (Champagne, Chocolates and Malt Whisky).

It was suggested that individual members may wish to contact local businesses to request donations for raffle prizes (Action – All to consider).

It was also suggested that we could bring the AI banner and some of the posters that are in the store cupboard to the event to help raise awareness of AI.

Final arrangements for the event will be made at our February meeting (which takes place just six days before the event).

Urgent Actions

Merle circulated Urgent Actions and a number of colleagues undertook letter writing on those cases.

Date of Next Meeting

The next meeting will take place on Thursday 9th February 2023, 7.30pm - 9pm @ Woodlands Methodist Church, 229 Woodlands Road, G3 6LW.

2023 Meeting Dates

New Members welcome!

The Group meets every 2nd Thursday at 7.30pm - 9pm.

The meetings take place at Woodlands Methodist Church, 229 Woodlands Road, G3 6LW

For further information contact mail@glasgowwestamnesty.org.uk

• Thursday 12th January 2023

• Thursday 9th February 2023

• Thursday 9th March 2023

• Thursday 13th April 2023

• Thursday 11th May 2023

• Thursday 8th June 2023

• Thursday 13th July 2023

• Thursday 10th August 2023

• Thursday 14th September 2023

• Thursday 12th October 2023

• Thursday 9th November 2023

• Thursday 14th December 2023

"Better to light a candle than curse the darkness"

Seasons Greetings!

Thanks to AMG for these minutes. If you prefer, you can read them as a PDF.

We would like to warmly invite you to attend the next meeting of the AI Glasgow West Group. Please come and join us for a mince pie, get involved in our lively and friendly discussions and help us make a positive difference to supporting Human Rights around the world.

These updates include:

• Details of our December meeting;
• Information on our event being held in Hillhead library on Sat 10th Dec
• Excerpts from AIUK's recent update for local groups; and
• Minutes of our local group meeting held last month

December 2022 Glasgow West AI Group Meeting

Thursday 8th December, Woodlands International Methodist Church, 7:30pm

The next Glasgow West Amnesty meeting takes place on Thursday 8^th December at 7.30pm – 9pm at Woodlands International Church.

More details on Facebook - https://fb.me/e/24A3jSi3e

We would love to see you there on Thursday!

Our activities for the December meeting include:

• Finalising plans for our event being held on Saturday 10th Dec in Hillhead Library, Byres Road, Glasgow. This is focused on engaging the public on AI's annual letter writing campaign, Write for Rights! We will be there between 11am – 4pm and would love you to drop in and get involved in writing short letters of protest to governments – as well as letters of support to prisoners of conscience. No experience required! AI volunteers will be there throughout the day to help you make a difference.

• Sara Barry from Freedom from Torture will be attending our December meeting to provide an overview of FfT's work. On the evening, Sara will also be selling FfT Xmas Cards to help fund the work of that organisation. Anyone interested in purchasing these cards can also contact Sara directly at sara.barry1@ntlworld.com.

Extract Of Updates From AIUK

Human Rights at the FIFA World Cup 2022

32 nations are competing for the FIFA World Cup. Amnesty groups have seized this chance to highlight the current state of human rights in each of the participating countries, especially the hosts in Qatar.

Amnesty Lambeth had a meeting where eight members of the group assessed the human rights performance of the four countries in their allotted group. No prizes for the victor of the final but a trophy of shame. If you want to hear from the group sign up to their mailing list here.

Ewa Turczanska, a member of the Colwyn Bay group was part of an Amnesty response to an invitation from Melin Drafod, a Welsh think-tank to speak as part of a panel to discuss the World Cup and Welsh ethical foreign policy.

Since the panel discussion Ewa has been asked to speak for S4C (a Welsh tv channel) and has conducted a phone interview about Amnesty's take on Mark Drakeford (Welsh First Minister) going to Qatar.

Sign the petition

Amnesty Shop

A reminder that all local group members receive 10% off everything at the Amnesty Shop, as well as FREE P&P, on orders over £75.

We know that Local Groups and Student activists do amazing work for Amnesty. Buying and sending out cards and gifts from the Amnesty Shop is another way in which you can get involved and help spread our message. As always, we really appreciate your on-going support.

All our products are ethically made, so you can rest assured knowing that everything we sell meets high standards. And you can browse according to your own personal values - whether that be fair trade, vegan, plastic free, or UK made.

Order online and set yourself up with an account and log-on. Enter the code 10AMNGRP into the Gift & Promo Codes box on the Payment Options stage of the checkout to receive your 10% off and FREE P&P (minimum spend: £75).

Shop Here

Amnesty Christmas Raffle 2022

You may wish to enter the Amnesty Christmas Raffle and grab your chance to feel like a winner! How would you spend £5,000? That's what's up for grabs when the raffle is drawn in just a few weeks.

Tickets cost just £2 and with every ticket you buy, you're standing up for humanity.

Buy your raffle tickets online today for your chance to experience that winning feeling and you could help more unfairly imprisoned people walk free!

Enter now

Glasgow West AI October Updates

Amnesty International - Glasgow West Local Group 

Meeting held on 10th November 2022

Present: Claire (Chair), Amanda, Hala, Kirstie, Andrew, Sharon, Jim, Merle, Christine and Silvia.

Welcome: Claire warmly welcomed Amanda and Hala to the group and members introduced themselves. Amanda and Hala will be invited to join the Signal Group and the new members welcome letter will also be forwarded to them – and also to Sharon, who was attending her second meeting. (Action - Claire / Andrew)

Glasgow West AI Group Updates

• Silvia will continue to help update AIGW social media (including Facebook event for W4R). (Action – Silvia)

• It was noted that Rob Hallam updates the AIGW website http://www.glasgowwestamnesty.org.uk/ with the monthly updates. Andrew will forward Rob's contact details to Silvia, as she will wish to liaise with Rob in considering any changes to the website*.* (Action – Andrew / Silvia)

• It was suggested that the AIGW website may not need to contain the monthly minutes and instead could contain a note that they are available upon request. [post meeting note - there is currently very little content on the website other than the monthly updates and minutes, so we may wish to delay any changes until we have alternative content]

• Agreed that we should revert to one e-mail per month for the wider mailing list, containing a summary of key updates, minutes, etc. (Action – Andrew)

• Christine distributed posters she had made and various colleagues offered to put them up in local libraries shops, etc. (Action – Various members)

• Prisoner of Conscience role within AIGW – To be discussed in New Year.

• Andrew to ask Rob if it's possible to obtain info on how many e-mails sent to the AIGW mailing list are opened. (Action – Andrew)

• Treasurer's Update - Jim confirmed that the forms had been completed to enable a change of signatories to the Group's bank account. Two signatures will be required on any cheques, etc from Kirstie, Jim and Andrew. Jim will remain as Treasurer until changes are made with the bank; thereafter Kirstie will take on that role. Jim noted he had been advised that the cost of hiring the church hall would rise by a relatively modest amount. Jim indicated he would try phoning The Stand Comedy Club about hosting a fundraiser for the Group. (Action – Jim)

• The Group had agreed at the Oct meeting to donate £100 to AIUK's Iranian Women campaign Urgent Appeal.  Having contacted AIUK regarding this, the advice was that donations to AI are generally not ringfenced for particular causes and that the appeal was aimed at individual donations. It was subsequently agreed that it would be best to rescind the previous decision to donate group funds and, instead, individual members may make a donation, should they wish to.

• Name of Group – A brief discussion took place on whether we should consider changing the group name from AI Glasgow West to AI Glasgow. Following discussion, it was noted there could be a range of practical issues and other considerations. It was agreed that the Group's current name should remain.

• Andrew confirmed that he had contacted Naomi McAuliffe of AI's Scotland Office, inviting her to attend a meeting of the Group in the New Year to discuss how we might work more closely with AI's Scotland office on campaigns, etc. No response had been received yet. Andrew to chase up later in November if still no response. (Action – Andrew)

• Claire updated that she had contacted Interfaith Glasgow about the potential for joint working between our two groups. The response had been positive, though it would suit them better for something later in 2023. (Action – Claire to renew contact with Interfaith Glasgow later in 2023)

Upcoming Event - Write4Rights (W4R)

• Kirstie advised that Hillhead Library (Byres Road, Glasgow) had confirmed the venue for Saturday 10th December 2022, where our Group will host a W4R event. The aim is to encourage members of the public to participate in W4R, raise awareness of our group and encourage new members to get involved.

• Andrew circulated copies of the W4R booklets that had been requested on behalf of the group. (Kirstie hadn't yet received a response from AIUK to her request for booklets).

• Agreed to cover the W4R event between 11am - 4pm. (Rota – 11am – 1pm Merle, Christine and Amanda; 1pm – 3pm Silvia, Jim and Andrew; 12pm – 4pm Claire; 2pm – 4pm Kirstie; others invited to input as and when they may be available). (Action – various members)

• In preparation for W4R event, equipment to be brought to our next meeting, which is two days before the event: colouring pencils, pens, paper, non-religious cards, group promotional cards and banner. (Action – various members)

• The cupboard in the church hall contains some suitable AI posters, badges and a collection tin.

• We will share details of the event with the other Glasgow AI groups and invite them to participate with us. (Action - Andrew to share with Daytime Group and Silvia to share with Student group)

• Also agreed that we could invite local politicians to attend the W4R event (MPs/Councillors/MSPs). (Action – all to consider and make contact, as appropriate)

• Final preparations for the event to be made at our next meeting on Thursday 8th November.

AIUK Local Group Updates

• Claire provided an update on some of the issues covered within the AIUK local groups update, including:

• Jamnesty in solidarity with Luis Manuel event. AIUK was inviting groups and supporters to hold local ‘Jamnesty' live music events to celebrate Luis Manuel's life and work, raise awareness of his case and raise vital funds for AIUK. 

• AI Conference cancelled due to train strikes.

• *Petition: https://www.amnesty.org/en/petition/close-guantanamo/ *

• Amnesty Shop - 10% discount for members - Code: 10AMNGRP

• Ukraine Appeal – Help Amnesty International Expose War Crimes by Fundraising with Your Group - Nov-Dec - you'll be able to donate funds raised directly to our work supporting human rights in Ukraine. We are not always able to offer groups the opportunity to raise money in support of specific areas of work, so we are looking forward to seeing how you make the most of this opportunity.  Read more about our Ukraine Appeal and how you can get involved; download a Donation Form for our Ukraine Appeal 

• British Nationals in Iran No-One Left Behind: Download our new campaign toolkit. This new toolkit gives you information about the campaign, how to involve your MP and take part in the London to Tehran challenge, and where to find all the tools you need to take action.  

• Update: Morad Tahbaz was sent back to Evin prison in Iran after being released on furlough. We are asking the Foreign Secretary to urgently meet Morad's family to outline the UK's plans to secure his freedom. You can read our response to this news here. Petition 

• End Israel Apartheid: new report calling on The International Criminal Court to investigate unlawful attacks committed during Israel's August assault on the Gaza Strip as war crimes. Link to recording from conference on the Right to Boycott

• Youth Activist Coach - piloting a new project to support Amnesty Youth Groups and youth activism in schools. We are recruiting local activists and human rights educators who are based in/can easily travel to one of the following areas, inc. Falkirk FK5! Successful applicants will be matched with, trained, and supported to offer tailored coaching to a participating Amnesty Youth Group over a 9-month period. If you are interested in being part of our pilot, please read the Youth Activist Coach role description to find out more and for how to apply.

• Amnesty Christmas Raffle 2022 - Tickets £2: https://raffle.amnesty.org.uk/ 

• Online training courses - on futurelearn / Amnesty Academy: People, Power, and Politics: Influencing Political Decision-Makers on Human Rights; Amnesty website

Urgent Actions

Merle circulated the most recent Urgent Actions. Members within the core group and the wider mailing list are encouraged to respond to the Urgent Actions, if they can do so.

https://www.amnesty.org.uk/urgent-actions

Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 8th December 2022, 7.30pm - 9pm @ Woodlands Methodist Church, 229 Woodlands Road, G3 6LW

Donations

We appreciate that there is a cost-of-living crisis and a great many are feeling the squeeze. If you do feel able to support us with a donation to help our ongoing running costs, we would be very grateful.

We have set up a Paypal donation page.

If you would prefer to donate at a meeting, that too would be welcomed!

Thank you to AMG for these updates. If you prefer, you can read the updates as a PDF.

Welcome & Introductions

Meeting held on 13th October 2022

Present: Jim, Andrew, Merle, Kirstie, Silvia and Claire

Apologies: Neil and Christine

Updates

Roles:

• Kirstie to assume role of Treasurer. Updates to be made to the Group's bank account. Two signatures will be required on any cheques, etc.  Andrew also to be a signatory. Jim will remain as Treasurer until changes are made with the bank.
• Claire to assume role of Group Chair, with the possibility of an additional Co-Chair being appointed in the future.
• Andrew to assume role of Secretary. Huge thanks to Freya for all her work over the past 8 years in that role.
• Silvia to assume the role of Social Media co-ordinator.

Discussion took place on other potential roles that could be useful and would require volunteers within the Group, including Press liaison and ‘Prisoner of Conscience'.

Group Donation:

Group agreed to donate £100 to AIUK's Iranian Women campaign Urgent Appeal.  Andrew will liaise with AIUK and Jim / Kirstie about making the donation.

Stand up at the Stand

Still no reply from The Stand Comedy Club about hosting a fundraiser for our Group. Jim will, once again, seek to follow up with them.

New Group Members

Thanks to Christine and others for beginning to draft a welcome letter for new Group members, setting out info on the work of our Group.  Thanks also to Silvia for suggesting and drafting a poster style template aimed at encouraging new members.

Social Media

Silvia is also  beginning to develop a series of attractive and social media friendly ‘posters' / templates for use in highlighting the work of the Group.

Scottish Government's proposed Human Rights Bill

[NB not to be confused with the UK Govt's 'Human Rights Bill' (AKA 'Rights Removal  Bill'), which has - at least temporarily - been put on hold with regard to its progress through Parliament]. 

The Human Rights Consortium Scotland (HRCS) (which comprises 100+ Scottish civil society organisations, including AI), is campaigning for the Scottish Govt to prioritise introduction of its own Human Right Bill for Scotland.  The Scottish Government had already outlined its intention to introduce this Bill and the HRCS is urging the Scottish Government to accelerate the timescale.

See: This post from HRC Scotland. 

The Bill is intended to safeguard existing human rights and embed them more fully across Scottish Govt policy and Scotland's legal system.

(i.e. Largely in contrast to what the UK Govt had been proposing in its Human Rights Bill). 

The focus of the proposed Scottish Bill is yet to be developed in detail and will be subject to consultation. However, it is likely to build upon the 'rights-based approach' to children's policy, whereby the Scot Govt last year sought to incorporate the UN Children's Rights Convention into Scots Law.

Following the UK Govt challenging that in the Supreme Court, amendments will be required, but it is understood that the broad ability of the Scot Govt to pursue this approach was largely upheld. Naomi McAuliffe, Scotland Programme Director of AI is one of the signatories to the HRCS letter. 

Decision:

It was agreed that the group should consider inputting  to the Scottish
Government's Human Rights Bill consultation when it is launched (no date
agreed)

Treasurer's Report

Jim reported there is £315 in the Group's bank account. Fees for use of the hall for group meetings have been paid up until the end of 2022.  We require to pay £72 to AIUK as our local group membership fee at the start of 2023. We have now agreed the £100 donation to the Iranian Women's Rights Urgent Appeal.

Following those two payments, the balance will be £143.

Local Groups Update

Highlights below have been extracted from Local Group Mailing List (September)

https://email.amnestyuk.org.uk/q/1eXvKtLE92c1kBsW5vToscA/wv

Guantanamo Bay Petition

https://www.amnesty.org/en/petition/close-guantanamo/ 

Amnesty Shop - 10% discount for members - Code: 10AMNGRP

https://www.amnestyshop.org.uk/ 

Ukraine Appeal

Help AIl Expose War Crimes by Fundraising with Your Group:

• a ring-fenced fundraising appeal for groups. In the months of
  November and December, we are offering local groups the chance to
  organise fundraising events raising money specifically for our work
  exposing war crimes in Ukraine. - more info soon!/

AIUK National Conference

05.11.22, 10:00 - 19:00 - (in-person). Any member interested in attending can Sign up here

British Nationals in Iran: No-One Left Behind

The Toolkit. October is the month of Action for British Nationals in Iran. The IAR team are inviting groups to take part in a series of events this Autumn in support of detained British Nationals in Iran, Morad and Mehran.

Download our new campaign toolkit.

This new toolkit gives you information about the campaign, how to involve your MP and take part in the London to Tehran challenge, and where to find all the tools you need to take action. If your group is organising any activities, please let us know by emailing iar@amnesty.org.uk.

East Asia Update

East Asia update, including on The Uyghur Campaign

Online training courses

On the Amnesty Education webpage and Futurelearn: People, Power, and Politics: Influencing Political Decision-Makers on Human Rights

Lead Activists Mandatory Training

New mandatory training for lead activists in Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism (IDEA) and Safeguarding - October 25 and November 29, from 5pm to 7.15pm. Sign up here:

https://amnestyuk.wufoo.com/forms/w1ce11q503zio0h/ 

Upcoming Events

Write4Rights (W4R)

Kirstie advised that our Group has had a provisional “yes” from Hillhead Library for 10-12-2022 where our Group will host a W4R event, encouraging members of the public to participate.

Provisionally aiming for 10am - 4pm. We will aim to include stickers, postcards, posters, collection tin, etc for the event. 

Freya had advised that AIUK typically send out W4R packs in early Nov - we have already requested them for our Group. The W4R documents are also available to download from the AIUK website.

Urgent Actions

Merle circulated the most recent Urgent Actions. Everyone within the core group and wider mailing list is encouraged to respond to the Urgent Actions

Belarus: Jailed Activist Subjected To Ill-Treatment

https://www.amnesty.org.uk/urgent-actions/jailed-activist-subjected-ill-treatment 

Iran: Iranian LGBTI Defender Sentenced To Death

https://www.amnesty.org.uk/urgent-actions/iranian-lgbti-defender-sentenced-death 

Burundi: Lawyer Detained Arbitrarily For Nearly 2-Yrs

https://www.amnesty.org.uk/urgent-actions/lawyer-detained-arbitrarily-nearly-2-yrs 

Action Points from this (13th October 2022) Meeting

• Silvia to do Social Media callout for new volunteers, including IAR
  Case Campaigner 

• Silvia to freshen up our local Group website

• Emails: Andrew to send liaise with Rob to send  two emails per month to our local Group membership. (1 with meeting minutes/updates to be sent c. 1 week after monthly meetings; 1 with meeting reminder & local group updates email link to be sent c. 1 week prior to the next monthly meeting). Include paypal account in footer. [bank details to be included just for special events]

• Write4Rights: Kirstie to confirm event date and use of facilities with Hillhead Library → when confirmed, Andrew to share with Student group & invite/ask to collab on their W4R event

• Following a recent request received by email*, Andrew* to be interviewed on behalf of the Group by the  Strathclyde journalism student undertaking research on Iran, mentioning our donation & AI's British Nationals in Iran campaign. 

• Andrew to contact AI's Scotland office to ask if Naomi McAuliffe could talk to a future meeting of our group about how best we can contribute to any campaign work e.g. Human Rights Bill.

• Claire to contact Interfaith Glasgow and Glasgow Mosque about a joint event in 2023 with the people who were at the Iftar event (on Uyghurs, Palestine, Kashmir) – Israel Apartheid campaign (use AIUK flyer & briefing notes; UN rapporteur's info); could have a more general meeting focus of “Religious Persecution”.

November Meeting

Provisional Items

Provisional list of items to be included indiscussion.  Other suggestions welcomed!

• Recruit for Community Outreach; Amnesty Scotland/UK Liaison; Press; Welfare & Diversity; Spokesperson 

See this Google Doc 

• Christine to share advertising posters at next meeting

• Discuss: Shall we change our name to Glasgow Amnesty /(Note potential issues for Daytime group and Glasgow University Group which we ought to discuss with them) /

• Write4Rights event planning

• Begin to develop an outline of the Group's priorities on the 2023 Planner 

• Facilitator: Any member willing to volunteer to chair the meeting would be appreciated

On Hold

Human Rights Act (UK)

As noted above. It appears that the UK Govt has, at lease temporarily, postoponed progress of its Human Rights Bill (AKA Rights Removal Bill).  Accordingly, the Group agreed to put on hold planned activity in this area until the next steps are clarified.

See 2022 Planned Campaigns for more info 

• AI petition: https://savetheact.uk/#signup-form
  • share & sign  🡪 social media & newsletter & see Andrew's briefing note for our Group for further info 
• Potential speakers for future meeting discussion on Human Rights Bill:
  • Amnesty Scottish office 
  • Aamer Anwar (Glasgow-based lawyer)/ /
  • Law Dep at Univ (Silvia)
• We could also liaise with the AI Scotland office and ask about linking with other AI local groups and broader groups within Scotland that have similar concerns to undertake more co-ordinated action on HRA. 
• As part of this, it was agreed that the group should consider inputting to the Scottish Government's Human Rights Bill consultation when it is launched (likely sometime in 2023).

Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 10th November 2022, 7.30pm - 9pm.

Woodlands Methodist Church, 229 Woodlands Road, G3 6LW

New Group members welcome!!!

Thanks to AMG for these updates. If you prefer, you can read the updates as a PDF.

Welcome & Introductions

Present: Merle, Andrew, Claire, Christine

Updates

AIUK Local Groups Mailing

https://email.amnestyuk.org.uk/q/1eXvKtLE92c1kBsW5vToscA/wv

AGM

• Andrew as secretary/research
• Merle continues as UAs / mail poster
• Silvia as Social Media/Events
• Kirstie mayyyybe as Treasurer ?? (wait for Jim role profile)
• Claire happy to be Chair until someone else can
• Christine as New Members Welcomer

GDrive

A shared Gdrive (internal use only) has been made for storing/editing docs in a shared space (e.g. minutes/role profiles): Google Drive link (linked to amnestyglasgow@gmail.com; get password from Claire if needed, but I don't anticipate we will use this email, it's just so we have the Gdrive)

General Agenda Template for Future Meetings

• local group mailing list updates
• prisoner of conscience update [if we have one]
• treasurer's report
• upcoming events
• urgent actions - letter writing (agreed this should always happen, nice bonding time)
• any other business

Action Points

Roles still needed (ideally):

• Prisoner of Conscience people
• Community Outreach
• Amnesty Scotland/UK Liaison
• Press
• Welfare&Diversity

Can someone who has done it before make a brief role profile for PoC person?

For the others, I've put a note in the Roles doc (I just think these other roles would be great to have, I know they aren't official “Amnesty group” roles)

File: Roles Document

When we have a role profile for PoC, → fun graphics → social media advertise for these roles [@Silvia and @Freya]

Welcome Document

@Christine to make a Welcome Doc for newbies. Ongoing Ideas to get more members:

• put Amnesty local group leaflets in libraries with our meeting time/address - @Christine did you say you could get the leaflets/we have them?
• speak to Student group - @Claire to get student group contact from @Mal
• for next event: ask AIUK to see on their mailing list who lives in Glasgow and we can give them a text to email them saying “Do you know your local group?” and advertise e.g. W4R event/next speaker

Write4Rights

• @Andrew to request Write 4 Rights packs (and @Christine - did you say that also?!)
• @Kirstie will ask Hillhead Library if we can do it on 10/12/22 - Human Rights Day
• @Claire to contact Daytime group re. collaborating on a Write 4 Rights joint event - we will do ours at Hillhead Library in December; some of us can also support Daytime group at Shawlands

Daytime Group

Also @Claire to contact Daytime group and offer to advertise their meeting time/place through our social media/mailing list. Info from Meredith:

“Daytime group meets on the third Thursday of every month at The Wee Retreat, 2 Myrtle Park, G42 8UQ, from 1 - 3PM. We sign letters and discuss current events. It is 5 minutes from Crosshill rail station with free on street parking and a bus stop outside. Bus number 121 from Allison Street stops here. The meeting takes place in the studio and we have been asked not to wear outdoor shoes. Feel free to bring slippers. We are happy to add you or anyone else to our mailing list.”

Treasurer

Currently £378.51 in the bank. Kirstie might be up for being Treasurer if she knows what is involved. @Jim to make (v brief) role profile. Did Jim find 2 other co-signatories for Coop account?

Misc

• Central Amnesty/local groups updates email - @Freya/@Mal to help @Claire (and @Andrew?) get on the mailing list
• @Jim to check re. Stand up at the Stand fundraising night
• @Andrew to link up with @Rob about monthly emails & decide how best to send out
  • ?? In next email, could we share our bank acc details again for donations (and paypal acc if running and accessible? (Jim?))
  • Could this always be in our emails maybe as a footer, maybe a nice graphic?
• @Christine to start prepping the mulled wine for our Write4Rights December meeting (08/12/22) :p

Previous Action Points & Updates

Human Rights Act

• (big thanks to Andrew for researching & presenting!): Planned Campaigns (PDF)
• AI petition: https://savetheact.uk/#signup-form – share & sign, social media & newsletter @Freya & attach Andrew's briefing note for more info
• Get speakers for November (??) meeting:
  • Amnesty Scottish office - @Mal can you ask if they have a speaker who could come to speak to us about HRA?
  • ??? - Anwar (Glasgow lawyer) – does anyone have a link? – if not Claire can coldcall
  • Silvia – Law Dep at uni
  • Andrew - Good Law Society
• @Someone (Andrew?!) write a template pledge about saving the HRA; all to email MPs to make a pledge that they support XXX
• @Mal – do you have someone in the Scotland office we could ask about linking with other AI local groups within Scotland and with the Scottish AI office to undertake more co-ordinated action on HRA.
• @All: Think about like-minded organisations locally that have similar concerns relating to the UK Government's proposed amendments to the HRA office to undertake more co-ordinated action.

Patrick Grady Meeting

@Jim to email the Scottish Office about our Patrick Grady meeting

Iftar Follow Up

@Mal is there any update on hosting a meeting with the people who were at the Iftar event (on Uyghurs, Palestine, Kashmir) – could tie this in with Israel Apartheid campaign (there are AIUK flyer & briefing notes; UN rapporteur's info); could have a more general meeting focus of “Religious Persecution”

Next meeting - October 2022

2022-10-13
Facilitator: volunteer ???!

Many thanks to CL for these updates. You can also read them as a PDF here.

Welcome & Introductions

Amnesty Meeting 2022-07-14

Present: Merle, Jim, Silvia, Andrew, Claire, Neil

Updates

• Jim: couldn't find anything about Justice for Syria campaign on Amnesty's website, will wait to see

• Amnesty boxes/resources sorted out in church storeroom – Jim emailed church. Lotsss of paper & envelopes – we need letter writing sessions again!

Action Points

Daytime group

Find out if Daytime group still meeting, when, and offer to advertise their meeting time/place through our social media/mailing list - @Freya/@Mal do you have someone you can ask?

£££

a. @Jim to find 2 other co-signatories for Coop account

b. @Freya In next newletter, share our bank acc details again for donations (and paypal acc if running and accessible) – Could this always be in our emails maybe as a footer, maybe a nice graphic?

Stand Up For Human Rights

@Jim to ask the Stand about doing another Stand up at the Stand fundraising night

Patrick Grady Meeting

@Jim to email the Scottish Office about our Patrick Grady meeting

Human Rights Act

Big thanks to Andrew for researching&presenting!

See: http://email.amnestyuk.org.uk/files/amf_amnesty/project_58/2022_Planned_Campaigns.pdf

• AI petition: https://savetheact.uk/#signup-form – share & sign → social media & newsletter @Freya & attach Andrew's briefing note for more info

• Get speakers for September meeting:

  i. Amnesty Scottish office - @Mal can you ask if they have a speaker who could come to speak to us about HRA?

  ii. ??? - Anwar (Glasgow lawyer) – does anyone have a link? – if not Claire can coldcall

  iii. Silvia – Law Dep at uni

  iv. Andrew - Good Law Society

• @Someone (Andrew?!) write a template pledge about saving the HRA → all to email MPs to make a pledge that they support XXX

• @Mal – do you have someone in the Scotland office we could ask about linking with other AI local groups within Scotland and with the Scottish AI office to undertake more co-ordinated action on HRA.

• @All: Think about like-minded organisations locally that have similar concerns relating to the UK Government's proposed amendments to the HRA office to undertake more co-ordinated action.

Iftar Event Follow-Up

@Mal is there any update on hosting a meeting with the people who were at the Iftar event (on Uyghurs, Palestine, Kashmir) – could tie this in with Israel Apartheid campaign (there are AIUK flyer & briefing notes; UN rapporteur's info); could have a more general meeting focus of “Religious Persecution”

Next Meeting: 2022-08-11

Next meeting's facilitator: Freya (people can volunteer each month!)

Next Event

For next event: Ask AIUK to see on their mailing list who lives in Glasgow and we can give them a text to email them saying “Do you know your local group?” and advertise September event