Interview with 133 Member Julia Lodge

When did you join AI, and why?

I joined AI last Fall, after I returned from a two year stint in Poland with the Peace Corps. I actually went to the Regional Office for an 'informational interview' hoping for a paying job, but none were available. They directed me to Group 133, telling me if I wanted to be active, this was the group to join.

What was your first meeting like?

I went to a USA meeting held by Kathleen Gillespie. I thought everyone was very organized and informed. I was impressed by the way people treated each other with a uniform level of respect, regardless of age. It was great to see people of different ages working together on something they really care about.

Can you tell us about some of your roles in Amnesty?

This year I coordinated "Get On the Bus IV" an event started by Stefanie Valovic. A great learning experience.

What is the most important part of your work with Amnesty ?

I would say number one is to raise the level of awareness, starting with myself. Along with the factual information, its important to give people the motivation and tools to make a change. Simply shocking people with all the horrors can leave people feeling helpless. It's so easy to become saddened, outraged, and disgusted by all the  atrocities, but it is vital to translate that emotional response into a positive action. Every small action counts and can lead to the desire to do more. I loved Blakney Bell and Dan King's action, they sent hundreds of flowers to Chinese officials demanding the release of Tibetan Prisoners of Conscience. Rather than adding more anger to the situation, they broke the cycle of violence. I am angry about so many things, but I think it' s important to channel that energy in a positive direction.

What was you best/most successful AI experience?

Get on the Bus was fantastic! It was so great to see everyone working together for Human Rights. After so much work, we were blessed with a great sunny day where our protests were heard. The activism was contagious and we made an impact.

Your worst?

Balancing work and Amnesty can be tough. It was also intimidating at times trying to organize an event when I was the person in the room who knew the least about it. I'm learning, though.

Who are you role models?

Sophia Kryda for her patience, Aung San Suu Kyi for her peaceful courage, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.