LETTERS MARATHON
The Writing Marathon is an international event. The idea of creating the Letter Writing Marathon was born in Poland, in a local Warsaw group. The first Marathon was organized in 2001 and has become a permanent fixture in the calendar of activities carried out by Amnesty International. Thanks to the Marathon, knowledge about freedom and human rights is disseminated. The Writing Letters Marathon is based on the assumption that respect for human rights is a common cause of the entire society, and building a culture of respect for human rights and civil society requires the activation of young people at the school stage.
PURPOSE, HISTORY, DATE OF THE MARATHON
PURPOSE OF THE MARATHON
The most important goal of the Letter Writing Marathon is to really influence the fate of people whose human rights are violated. Letters written by people in Poland and around the world are really effective. Many people taking part in the Marathon receive responses to their letters, and those who were released thanks to these letters admit that they encouraged them and comforted them in difficult times. Letters of solidarity turn out to be a great support for the persecuted and imprisoned.
HISTORY OF THE MARATHON
The first Writing Letters Marathon was organized in 2001 and already then became an international event. It takes place every year, over the weekend around International Human Rights Day on December 10. It is the most famous event in Poland, involving so many people in the defense of human rights. Every year the number of letters written in defense of prisoners of conscience is increasing.
EVENT DAY
The final of the RAE’s Letter Writing Marathon always takes place in early December. For 24 hours, we write letters by hand in defense of specific people whose rights have been violated. We demand the release of those imprisoned for their beliefs and an end to the persecution of human rights defenders. We stand up against injustice. Be with us these days!
