Youth Activism

BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images

Across the world, young people have always been at the forefront of social change – and student activism is at the heart of our work at Amnesty International.

In 1961, as young people across the southern United States were leading sit-ins and nonviolent protests to end racial segregation, two students in Portugal were arrested for raising their glasses in a toast to freedom. This wrongful imprisonment ignited the flame that fires our work, and built Amnesty International into what it is today.

Young people make up a substantial majority of our base of activists committed to protecting and defending human rights. Youth not only carry out the life-saving work of the organization, but also are leaders within it as agents of change – defending, empowering, and building a vision of a better world where human rights are enjoyed by all.

Students & Young People

We have over 600 youth and student groups across the United States. Young people are driving human rights work on their campuses and in their communities, while learning about global and domestic human rights issues. When you join Amnesty International, you’ll gain valuable skills and tangible leadership experience through training and mentorship. You’ll be part of a movement of millions of young people raising their voices around the world, and we’re here to guide and support you.

Student Groups

Student groups are youth-led, faculty-supported, and aligned with our human rights research, education and advocacy. By starting or joining a campus chapter you help educate your campus about current human rights issues and take action!

Student group starter guide
Register a new student group

Youth Leadership

As a grassroots organization, there are many opportunities for young people to serve in leadership roles that advance human rights. If you have or want to develop facilitation skills, public speaking, lead trainings, hone your organizing and campaigning expertise, or social media management, check out the many leadership roles available.

Fellowships & Internships

If you are talented, passionate about human rights, and want to use your skills and experience to change the world, then we might just have the right role for you. Our fellowships and internships provide the opportunity to build skills within the human rights movement and shape the direction of the organization.

Internships and careers at Amnesty International
Ladis Kristof Memorial Fellowship

Organize

Our organizing team works across several states in the US. When you join a task force, you help build the people power we need to create a strong grassroots movement – and win.

Our activist members are anchored within their communities and are eager to leverage their networks to make change as an Amnesty International activist. Learn more.

Photo by Scott Langley Photography

 

Educators & Faculty

Educators are critical to Amnesty International’s successful work to protect and defend human rights. Your guidance, organizational leadership, knowledge, and skills in and out of the classroom allow young people to learn about and engage with human rights activism. 

We can support you with resources and tools to bring human rights into the classroom.

 

Kids & Parents

We define youth as anyone under the age of 25, and we welcome activists of all ages – even in the single digits! It’s never too early to learn about human rights, and parents can play a key role in helping their children not only know their rights, but explore how to protect the rights of others.

 

Resources for Existing Groups

If you’re already an active member of an existing group you can go to our registered groups page for more information. We have many essential tools, resources, and training materials to support your activism and mobilize in your community.

Get Involved

Ready to get involved, but aren’t sure where to start? Have a question for the Youth & Student Program? Interested in a partnership with AIUSA?

Email

Email us at [email protected].

Request a Speaker

Request a speaker from Amnesty for your school or classroom.

Partnership Opportunities

AIUSA partners with educators, organizations, and others throughout the year. If you’d like to explore working with us, contact [email protected].