AIUSA - Egypt Activist Guide

8/7/2019 AIUSA - Egypt Activist Guide

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Activist Guide

Unrest in EgyptDEMANDING CHANGE


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DEMANDING CHANGE: Unrest in EgyptActivist Guide

DEMANDING CHANGE: Unrest in EgyptActivist Guide

CONTENTS

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Background Information:Protests in Egypt; About Amnesty InternationalAmnesty Internationals Rapid Response to Crisis in Egypt:Getting involved through an AI perspective; Intl Day of SolidarityAmnesty Internationals Rapid Response to Crisis in Egypt:Key Actions, Human Rights Messaging & AI Talking PointsActivism Resources:Basics of planning a rally or demonstration; Suggested slogansActivism Resources:Tips for supporting and organizing events; Letters to the editorAmnesty International Resources:AI resources on the web & in the AIUSA Section


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DEMANDING CHANGE: Unrest in Egypt

Activist Guide 3

BACKGROUND INFORMATIONProtests in Egypt

About Amnesty International

On January 25, 2011, protests began in cities throughout Egypt. Inspired by the recent events in Tuni

Egyptians began protesting against poverty, corruption and police abuse and calling for the end of Presid

Hosni Mubaraks rule.

Since then, more than 100 protestors have been killed in the demonstrations, which have been forci

dispersed by the security forces. Scores of others have been injured. Many of those injured did not go to

hospital for treatment for fear of being arrested.

Additionally, over a thousand protestors have been detained by the Egyptian security forces. Many were bea

up by riot police and State Security Investigations officers during their arrest and beaten again once detained

Central Security camps. They had their mobile phones confiscated from them and those injured were denied a

quate medical care. They were also denied immediate access to a lawyer.

On January 27, 2011, the Public Prosecutor ordered the release on bail of some detainees. They have be

charged with unauthorized gathering, assault on security forces, damaging public property and disrupting trafOthers continue to be detained and are expected to appear before the prosecutor in the coming days. The

charges are just the latest example of the authorities attempting to curb freedom of assembly and deny Egypti

the right to peaceful assembly.

The Egyptian government is also continuing to try to censor its citizens, initially cutting off internet and pho

access. While much internet access has been restored, the government has taken other steps to li

communications. Now journalists find themselves targets in the crackdown on freedom of expression. Des

this, the protests continue. We, too, must not remain silent and stand in solidarity with the Egyptian people.

From 2000 to 2003, AI campaigned for the release of human rights activist and scholar Saad Eddin Ibrahim, who w

mprisoned for his activities monitoring elections in Egypt and for criticizing what he saw as attempts to pass powundemocratically from President Hosni Mubarak to Mr. Mubaraks son.

When student blogger Karim Amer was sentenced to four years' imprisonment in 2007 for publishing his views via the intern

Amnesty took up campaigning on his case until his release from prison in 2010.

The organization highlighted the case of novelist and human rights activist Musaad Suliman Hassan Hussein (usually known

his pen name Musaad Abu Fagr) through its worldwide Global Write-a-thon in December 2009. After more than two years det

tion without trial, Mr. Hussein was released in July 2010.

Founded in 1961 and celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, Amnesty Internationala Nobel Peace Prize winneris now worlds largest human rights organization, with 3 million supporters in more than 150 nations and territories and 500,000 su

porters in the United States. Bringing together millions of people around the globe to shine a light on injustice, we strive

protect the rights of all people to live with dignity, free from violence and injustice.

Our global movement of determined and compassionate individuals has mobilized for more than 50 years to free people froprisons and death chambers and institute laws that will protect people from brutality, challenge vicious authorities acombat injustice. Amnesty International investigates and exposes abuses, educates and mobilizes the public, and works

protect people wherever justice, freedom, truth and dignity are denied by campaigning for human rights worldwide.


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Activist Guide 4

AMNESTY INTERNATIONALS RAPID RESPONSETO CRISIS IN EGYPTGetting involved through an AI perspective

International Day of Solidarity with the Egyptian People

Egypt Mission to the United Natio36 East 67th St

New York, NY 10065

Egypt Consulate New York1110 Second Ave

New York, NY 10022

Egypt Consulate Houston1990 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 2180

Houston, TX 77056

Egypt Consulate Chicago500 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1900

Chicago, IL 60611Egypt Consulate San Francisco3001 Pacific Ave

San Francisco, CA 94115

Egypt Embassy Washington, D.C.3521 International Ct. N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20008

www.embassyofegyptwashingtondc.org

Outside all Egyptian Embassies & Consulates,or public locations worldwide!Saturday, February 5: 12:00pm2:00pm (suggested local time)

In light of the situation in Egypt, Amnesty members are encouraged to participate in coordinated action

with other organizations to express solidarity and support for the Egyptian protestors. In this respect, ther

are a few points to consider before committing yourself to being involved.

Amnesty International does not take a position on any political party, agenda or ideology in Egypt, and inot calling for Mubarak to step down, but instead, focuses on the human rights violations which havfollowed the crackdown on peaceful protests.Please exercise caution when supporting or organizing events in solidarity for Egypt and make sure t

focus on Amnesty Internationals messages and the overall human rights framework when participating.

Amnesty International relies on its independent and impartial research and funding to maintain utmos

integrity and credibility in the global human rights movement and beyond. Therefore, Amnesty activisshould be particularly careful about sharing any public platform, making joint public statements or joint

organizing events so as not to be seen supporting a particular economic, social, political party or religiou

ideology or to take sides on a conflict. Focus on neutrality and human rights.Even if opposing messaging is present, as long as Amnesty activists are clearly identified with Amnesmessaging/signs and prepared with Amnesty talking points, effective collaboration can still occur in thname of international solidarity and human rights!

Join in peaceful demonstrations in solidarity with the Egyptian people and in support of freedomand democracy on the International Day of Solidarity with the Egyptian people!
http://www.embassyofegyptwashingtondc.org/http://www.embassyofegyptwashingtondc.org/


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Activist Guide 5

Key Actions

Human Rights Messaging & Talking PointsOnce again, Amnesty International does not take a position on any political party, agenda or ideology iEgypt, and is not calling for Mubarak to step down, but instead, focuses on the human rights violationwhich have followed the crackdown on peaceful protests.The Egyptian government must allow peaceful demonstrations, rein in the security forces, and refrai

from disproportionate and unnecessary use of force against protesters.

Under international law, police must not use firearms against persons except in self-defense o

defense of others against the imminent threat of death or serious injury.

Protesters have been detained, injured and killed in the unrest that began on 25 January. Egyptian secu

rity forces have disproportionately and unnecessarily used live rounds and lethal force against protesters

Over 1,200 protestors, reporters and journalists have been arrested and detainedDetainees must hav

immediate access to legal counsel and family members, and be formally charged or released. They mu

not be subjected to torture or ill-treatment.

The government must cease all efforts to block the Internet, social media tools or impede the norma

flow of communications.

In the long-term, the Egyptian government must end the State of Emergency which facilitates othe

human rights abuses such as unfair trials, prolonged detention and the systematic use of torture.

Amnesty International believes protesters must have the right to organize protests and demonstrate frefrom intimidation, violence, and the threat of arbitrary detention and prosecution.

Call the Egyptian embassy (202.895.5400), urging them to allow peaceful protests tocontinue without intimidation and violence from Egypt's security forces. Then report back he

Take URGENT ACTION on behalf of Egyptian protestors at risk.(PDF): http://www.amnestyusa.org/actioncenter/actions/uaa01511.pdf

Urge the US government to press Egypt to rein in security forces during protests here.

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AMNESTY INTERNATIONALS RAPID RESPONSETO CRISIS IN EGYPT

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http://takeaction.amnestyusa.org/site/c.jhKPIXPCIoE/b.6537769/k.429F/Egypt_Call_In_Feedback/apps/ka/ct/contactus.asp?c=jhKPIXPCIoE&b=6537769&en=8hIFLRMvH7IOK1NyF6JKK3MPJlKRL2MFLeIOI7PQLvFhttp://www.amnestyusa.org/actioncenter/actions/uaa01511.pdfhttp://www.amnestyusa.org/actioncenter/actions/uaa01511.pdfhttp://takeaction.amnestyusa.org/siteapps/advocacy/index.aspx?c=jhKPIXPCIoE&b=2590179&template=x.ascx&action=15213http://takeaction.amnestyusa.org/siteapps/advocacy/index.aspx?c=jhKPIXPCIoE&b=2590179&template=x.ascx&action=15213http://takeaction.amnestyusa.org/siteapps/advocacy/index.aspx?c=jhKPIXPCIoE&b=2590179&template=x.ascx&action=15213http://www.amnestyusa.org/actioncenter/actions/uaa01511.pdfhttp://takeaction.amnestyusa.org/site/c.jhKPIXPCIoE/b.6537769/k.429F/Egypt_Call_In_Feedback/apps/ka/ct/contactus.asp?c=jhKPIXPCIoE&b=6537769&en=8hIFLRMvH7IOK1NyF6JKK3MPJlKRL2MFLeIOI7PQLvF


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Activist Guide 6

ACTIVISM RESOURCES

Suggested slogans for rallies

Basics of Planning a Rally or Demonstration

DIGNITY FOR ALL

DIGNITY IS OUR RIGHT

WE DEMAND DIGNITY

HEAR OUR VOICE, RESPECT OUR RIGHTS

SOCIAL JUSTICE FOR ALL

NO TO POVERTY, YES TO SOCIAL JUSTICEPEACEFUL PROTEST IS A RIGHT

RESPECT OUR RIGHTS!

END EMERGENCY LAW, UPHOLD RIGHTS

JUSTICE NOW

NO TO TORTURE, YES TO JUSTICE

WE STAND IN SOLIDARITY

TIME FOR JUSTICE

ENOUGH STATE ABUSE

STOP THE BLOODSHED

END 30 YEARS OF REPRESSION

Before any rally begins, it should be organized thoroughly and have a clear and useful purpose. A well-organiz

demonstration can educate the public about your point of view, attract media attention, indirectly pressure public officia

and increase awareness of your cause.

Regardless of the size of the rally, a lot of time and effort goes into organizing any demonstration. Here are some things

keep in mind. It can be helpful to create a smaller planning team to help organize the event. Hold a meeting to recruit peop

convince your friends or do what you have to do to get people on board. Try to schedule the rally at a time that is convenie

for the most number of people and not during a time where events may be competing. Once a location is chosen, call yo

local police station to find out if you need a permit, or just to let them know whats going on so they arent shocked when t h

do find out. Make flyers and signs. Use slogans on paraphernalia. If there will be bands or guest speakers, identify who th

will be and how will they be heard (podium, speakers, microphones, sound system, etc).

This may be the most important task. Get people to come! Create an email group list or Facebook page that includes yo

community group contacts, appropriate friends, family members and co-workers. Distribute strategic updates about your eve

to this group, and encourage them to forward your emails to people they know who'd want to attend. Post flyers around t

neighborhood, at community centers, on school and church bulletin boards. Everywhere!

Contact media outlets and specific reporters and at least 1-2 weeks prior to announce your event and follow-up with a faxed

emailed copy of a media advisory a few days prior and on the day of your event. (Media advisories are concise who, wh

where, when and why updates that include information about interview opportunities). Follow-up phone calls are helpful

well to secure coverage.

Make sure there's a schedule of events. If you have speakers lined up, ensure that your speakers are ready and know how lo

they can talk. Make sure you have all the right permits and that the police are down with your peaceful assembly. Have flye

handy with some facts about your cause, petitions to gather signatures from the crowd for your cause (this engages passers-

as well!) and create some extra signs for people to hold, and exercise your right to speak out!

Be prepared to clean up afterwards and, most important of all, make sure youre not breaking any laws; be respectful to all! PUNOAO

PROMOTE

PLAN

PU

Because events on the ground in Egypt are moving quick

please refer to the Human Rights Now Blogand to the

AIUSA Egypt Country pagefor updates.
http://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://blog.amnestyusa.org/


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Activist Guide 7

Letters to the Editor

ACTIVISM RESOURCES

Writing letters to the editor is a great way to further raise awareness about the current situation in Egyp

with a large audience and to keep human rights at the heart of the dialogue.To significantly increase the chances that your letter is printed, please keep the following points in min

Use AI talking points/messages to guide your letter (Page 5), but also use your own words, style & voice as we

Try to frame your letter as a response to a recent article, editorial, or event covered by your newspape

Keep your letter concise and to the point. Check your newspapers website for guidelines on word cou

bear in mind that most newspapers will only accept letters of 150-200 words.

Make sure to give your contact details, including phone number. (Phone numbers will not be publish

editors generally call authors to confirm the validity of the letter before publishing.)

Include your Amnesty International affiliation at the bottom of your letter if appropriate; however, be

aware of mentioning the organization too many times and sounding self-promotional.

Check with your newspapers website to submit your letter via postal mail, fax or email.

Wrap your letter up by explaining what you think needs to happen now and make a call to action usin

one of Amnesty Internationals 3 key actions (Page 5).

Note: If your letter is published, please send a copy to AIUSA-Crisis Prevention & Response, 600 Pennsylvania ASE, 5th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20003., or email it [email protected].

Prepare volunteers. Have them practice our Amnesty International messages and talking points as well a

a response to the question What is Amnesty?, as well as what specific actions they will ask people to d

Make sure to have sign-up sheets to gather others contact information and bring plenty of pens.

(Download a sign-in sheet& be sure to follow-up and invite new contacts to your next meeting or event!)

Create an area where people can help themselves to Amnesty information, such as membership brochure

or printed copies of urgent actions and press releases. Always try to feature an action for people to take.Be prepared to ask people to join your group and to become members of Amnesty International.

Check to see if you need to bring any items yourself such as a table and chairs, or water for volunteers.

Tips for supporting and organizing events




Make sure you are easily identifiable with AI banners, signs or shirts to ensure

passersby know who you represent. Clearly marked AI branding and messaging willalso help distinguish your group from those who may have contrary messaging.
http://www.amnestyusa.org/activist_toolkit/referenceresources/samplesignin.pdfhttp://www.amnestyusa.org/activist_toolkit/referenceresources/samplesignin.pdfhttp://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://www.amnestyusa.org/activist_toolkit/referenceresources/samplesignin.pdf


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In the AIUSA Section

AMNESTY RESOURCESOn the Web



http://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147mailto:[email protected]://www.amnestyusa.org/act-locally/page.do?id=1031044http://www.facebook.com/amnestyusahttp://twitter.com/jpmlynchhttp://blog.amnestyusa.org/http://www.amnestyusa.org/egypthttp://www.amnestyusa.org/all-countries/egypt/page.do?id=1011147http://blog.amnestyusa.org/

Documents

AIUSA - Egypt Activist Guide