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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.
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.
Thank you.
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