To promote human rights around the world and work to free prisoner's of conscience.

History of the Organization:

The Des Moines chapter of Amnesty International grew out of a group of concerned Iowans who began meeting in 1976. The local chapter was formally constituted in 1982.

International Issues and Focus:

Promote human rights.
End torture and mistreatment of political prisoners.
End use of capital punishment worldwide.

Events and Programs Sponsored:

Each Amnesty International chapter, including the one in Des Moines, devotes a large part of its activities to writing letters and petitions to national authorities in other countries on behalf of prisoner's of conscience and others who have been persecuted for the non-violent expression of their political or religious beliefs. The Des Moines chapter meets on the 4th Wednesday monthly at 7:30pm on the ground level of the St. Ambrose Cathedral (607 High St.). Interested individuals are welcome to attend.

Membership: Membership is free.