Amnesty International UK: LGBTI Network: Update

Source: mass emailing

Amnesty International UK (LGBTI) Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex network   Dear Wilson, Welcome to the first network email of 2014.  I can only reiterate my hope that 2014 will see more action than there was in 2013 and more communication – and that communication will be both ways, from a central point to activists and from activists back to the centre. In particular, we hope to send out an e-mail briefing like this every 6 weeks or so.  One piece of good news is that a new staff member at AIUK has been appointed to support networks in their work from the end of March. Where to find more information on LGBTI rights There have been a number of actions made available to network members either via the LGBTI rights issues page on the website or the LGBTI UK Facebook page. Remember, we welcome responses and comments from network members and others via the Facebook page or from the website or via e-mail to lgbtinetwork@amnesty.org.uk Campaigning against the crackdown in Russia Over 15,000 people in the UK signed the petition calling for improved human rights in Russia in advance of the winter Olympic Games in Sochi.  The campaign culminated in a spectacular action outside the Russian embassy at the end of January.  Meanwhile, you can support our new action for Elena Klimova, who has been charged under the anti-'gay propaganda' law for running a website offering support to LGBTI teenagers. Sign our petition for Elena Klimova now Uganda's anti-homosexuality law If you've not already done so, please do take action calling upon the president of Uganda to reject the anti-homosexuality bill that he is currently considering – send an e-mail from the webpage. Recriminalisation of gay sex in India There are also blogs and articles on the Facebook page and the website about India (newspaper articles about the recriminalisation of gay sex written by staff in newly-established Indian office of Amnesty) and Nigeria.  We are exploring with the International Secretariat of Amnesty how best we can take action about Nigeria that supports partner organisations working for human rights for LGBTI people on the ground.  Building links with activists worldwide We're also seeking to build stronger links with other activists in Amnesty, working together on cases around the world, including in countries that may well not be in the news.  Another way we are seeking to work with other Amnesty activists is by our presence at the Amnesty International UK section AGM in Edinburgh 12-13 April – if you're going to be there please do let us know and we'll try to have a chat. Ultimately, the network is about its members – what they want to do and what they can do.  We hope that 2014 will see new ways for you to become involved and express your passion for human rights, whether writing more letters, organising events to highlight campaign priorities, or fundraising (or more). Please do let us know if you'd like to get more actively involved by emailing lgbtinetwork@amnesty.org.uk. Martin Lunnon and the AIUK LGBTI team         Supporting Amnesty with a regular gift or donation is the best way you can help us achieve our long term goals. Your help will allow us to keep up the pressure, demanding justice for victims of human rights abuses.       Copyright © Amnesty international, UK 2012. Registered in England no 01735872, registered office: Amnesty International UK, The Human Rights Action Centre, 17-25 New Inn Yard, London EC2A 3EA. Amnesty International UK is a company limited by guarantee. Amnesty International UK Section Charitable Trust number 1051681. Questions or feedback? sct@amnesty.org.uk

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