Get to know some of our group members before coming along to a meeting or getting in touch.
Meet David B – The Chair
David B joined Amnesty, and the Norwich group, back in 1978 due to the encouragement of his friend and colleague, David F (now our Treasurer).
Being an active activist throughout his time David B has been involved with many campaigns during his involvement with Amnesty and states that the best part of volunteering all these years has been helping individuals to gain freedom.
When asked why others should get involved with volunteering, David B said, “It is effective, focused, and enjoyable. Working with other people to improve some aspect of our world is a cooperative and fulfilling activity”.
Meet David F – The Treasurer
Similarly to David B, David F has been part of the group for over 40 years – joining Amnesty and the Norwich Group back in 1977.
In the late 60s and early 70s two international events, the military coups in Greece and Chile, left David F feeling like he needed to do something to fight for people’s freedom in any way he could. After joining Amnesty he went on to support campaigns on a wide number of cases, taking great pride in the efforts the group takes to improve an individual’s circumstances and protect hard-fought human rights.
“Being part of an international movement keeps me inspired to keep up my involvement in this important work. While being part of a local group means we become friends in a common cause, creating a friendly bond, and encouraging each other to never give up.”
Meet Evie – The Secretary
Evie joined the group back in November 2021 after researching a wide range of causes and organisations that aligned with her values.
After meeting the members of the group at an open meeting she felt inspired to not only join but take the role of Secretary, helping to support the running of the group and recruitment of members.
“I definitely have the least experience of anyone in this group when it comes to fighting for these freedoms, but that’s what made me want to join. The people involved in this group inspired me so much with their stories of action over 20, 30, and even 40-plus years! A lot of local groups are closing but I want to do what I can to not only keep this group going but also grow it for the future.”
Meet Joanna
Joanna joined Amnesty in 1977 before becoming part of the Norwich group a year later in 1978.
She first became interested in human rights following reports of Bloody Sunday in Derry in 1972 and the torture and disappearances in Chile under Pinochet in 1973. Amnesty was therefore the perfect fit as it allowed her to fight for what she believed in in a practical way.
“I’ve gotten to know a lovely group of like-minded fun people and to do something practical, whether that’s letter writing or raising money.”
Meet David Y
David Y started his involvement with Amnesty by writing letters for Urgent Action appeals 40 years ago, before joining the Norwich group ten years later when he moved to the city.
Inspired by a Norwich Amnesty Group speaker who gave a talk at a Church Youth Group, David Y realised the difference he could make being part of Amnesty, and has taken great pride in the wide range of activities he has participated in over the years (including being dressed up as a giant military dictator and being chased around by a giant Postman Pat brandishing an Amnesty appeal letter!).
“It’s just so good to know that you are doing something positive to help other people. It’s so important just to reach out to groups that share your views and concerns and get involved in any way, even if you aren’t able to commit much time.”
Meet Jono
Describing himself as a “tree hugger” Jono has been involved with activism for many years before joining the Amnesty group after seeing a poster in the University library.
Educating himself on the atrocities of human rights abuses in other countries, Jono has also had personal friendships with those who have suffered torture and abuse at the hands of regimes and feels extremely passionate about protecting human rights.
“If I have a right, I also have a duty to make sure that others have the same right.”
Meet Dom
Dom first became involved with Amnesty through the UEA student group, for which he was Vice President, before leaving university and joining the Norwich group.
Passionate about human rights, Dom has been involved with fundraising, pride banner making, and supporting the UEA group.
“Whenever I attend the Norwich group events I am always struck by the diversity and dedication of the members.”
Feeling inspired?
Then why not come along to one of our monthly open meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in the Amnesty Bookshop on St Benedicts.
We hope to see you there!
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