Her story is appalling, but true


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Dear John,

Andrea Sahouri is a journalist for the Des Moines Register in Iowa.

After covering a Black Lives Matter protest in May, she was arrested by police
for doing her job. Now, Iowa prosecutors are charging her for “failure to
disperse” and “interference with official acts.” It’s appalling, but true.

Not only is the right to peacefully protest in the U.S. under assault in cities
and states across the country — the right of the press to cover these protests
is, as well. That’s why Amnesty International’s efforts protecting the right to
peacefully protest and fighting back attempts to muzzle a free press are
critical in these turbulent times.

If you believe — like I do — that a free press is central to our democracy,
please rush an urgent donation to support Amnesty’s efforts right now.
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When Andrea was arrested, she was pepper sprayed and handcuffed in zip ties —
despite repeatedly identifying herself as a reporter. Her entire face and eyes
were burning, and she was crying out in pain.

Her story is just one case.... and there are so many more. That’s why we need
resources to shine a light on human rights violations committed by law
enforcement officers against peaceful protestors and journalists like Andrea
across the country.

And we aren’t only documenting abuses. We are mobilizing our grassroots movement
of activists to demand change. Right now, over 30,000 letters have been sent by
supporters demanding Iowa prosecutors drop the charges against Andrea — a
people-powered campaign that Amnesty is leading.

John, we have been protecting people wherever
justice, freedom, rights, and dignity are denied for nearly sixty years. We
fight — and we win — by investigating and exposing abuses of human rights, and
mobilizing a worldwide movement to demand action. But so much of what we’re able
to do depends on the generosity and commitment of supporters and members like
you.

Please make a special gift to power our work — your donation will make a
difference.
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Thank you.

Denise Bell
Researcher
Amnesty International USA

DONATE NOW
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