Interview with 133 Member Sofia Jarrin

When did you join AI and why?

In August of 1996, I remember it clearly. I was looking for job opportunities around Boston and talked about Amnesty International to Carl Williams at a tabling in Harvard Square. He mentioned (with a big smile on his face) that finding a paid job in Amnesty was close to impossible, and then invited me instead to one of their meetings. I had no idea I would be hooked after that innocent enticement.

What was your first meeting like?

Very confusing and a little bit intimidating, but extremely exciting at the same time. I could barely keep up with all the human rights jargon, names of our Actions, and new faces. My ignorance on international human rights was also revealed to me that night, but that only had me wanting for more. I believe I've missed 3 or 4 monthly meetings since then.

What was your best/most successful AI experience?

I couldn't for the best of me chose one as the best experience. I remember a couple that have changed me personally: my first AI Annual General Meeting in San Francisco (I had no idea so many people actually care!! And the great majority without pay, Carl, I must stress); our GOTB experience in New York, our hard core protest on Jiang Zemin's visit and all the press we got convinced me you CAN make a difference; the visit of the Dalai Lama, which influenced me both spiritually and politically; interpreting for Jose Sotz.

Your worst?

Perhaps being able to keep up with all the extra work! Many times seeing all the great people in the group working their hardest on human rights issues on the other side of the world, made me feel lazy. But I can't stress enough how much that has changed my small, day to day world. Bathing the cat doesn't seem such a bad experience anymore.

What is the most important part of your work?

Knowing that I am doing something to make a change in this world. I have realized that even just going to the meetings and sharing ideas with others is extremely important. And learning, learning as much as possible about human rights, history, and politics around the world in order to share them with others. Ignorance is truly the perpetuation of injustice.

Who are your role models?

Besides Group 133 members, Malcolm X, Ghandi, Che Guevara, the Dalai Lama, Rigoberta Menchu, Victor Jara, Jose Sotz, all indigenous people in Latin America, and my little brother.