Campaigning for human rights worldwide, Amnesty International at UT has put forth considerable effort to create the changes it wishes to see.

The University of Tennessee chapter of the international organization does everything from holding weekly meetings to performing group projects. According to Amnesty International member Kristen Cantwell, Amnesty International at UT has been involved in several projects this year.

"This year we spoke to area high schools about landmines, organized a campaign called No Sweat concerning UT apparel and possible connections with sweatshops, and held a 3-on-3 basketball fundraiser for an international group called Right to Play," Cantwell explained.

In February, UT Amnesty International members traveled to Washington to attend Lobby Day for Northern Uganda. This event was sponsored by Resolve Uganda, a coalition of individuals and organizations working to bring an end to conflicts in Northern Uganda.

This February, some Amnesty International members from UT traveled to Washington to attend Lobby Day for Northern Uganda.While weekly meetings are generally used for updating group members about the various projects of Amnesty International, on occasion, guest speakers are brought in to speak on specialized topics.

"We also often have guest speakers at meetings, such as Brian Barber, a UT faculty member and expert on youth and political conflict," Cantwell said. 

Amnesty International is a non-partisan organization, and anyone can join.

"Membership is open to anyone interested in promoting and obtaining justice for all," Cantwell stated.

Amnesty International at UT has had the privilege of great group members historically. According to Cantwell, the UT chapter has seen members go on to attend Harvard Law, Oxford University and Yale Medical School. Past members have also worked to protect human rights in Cambodia, Uganda and Burma.

The group will be holding a film screening Tuesday, April 15 in the Lindsey Young Auditorium at 8 p.m. All are welcome, and it's a good opportunity to get a better idea of what Amnesty International is about.

"This would be a good opportunity to get a feel for Amnesty prior to our next meeting," Cantwell expressed.

Anyone interested in becoming active in Amnesty International at UTK can attend the weekly meetings held on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. in room 218 of the University Center.