Create a More Just World by December 10th - David Little

I am deeply proud to have been present at the creation of IBJ eight years ago. I was there when Karen Tse, then graduating from Harvard Divinity School, first announced her commitment to the cause of promoting and protecting the legal rights of all in developing and transitional countries. It is a source of great satisfaction to have been close enough ever since to watch her bold vision take shape and meet with such success. IBJ’s work in the areas of criminal defender training, strengthening justice systems, and expanding awareness of legal rights in parts of Asia, Africa and elsewhere has become a model of dedication and effectiveness under the most challenging circumstances. Karen started IBJ after a pivotal experience in Cambodia where she met a 12 year old young boy. This boy had been detained, tortured by the police and denied access to counsel. Like so many prisoners around the world he languished in prison, without access to a lawyer or human rights worker to defend him or protect his rights. He also had no pending trial date to determine his guilt or innocence. However, since he was only an adolescent accused of stealing a bicycle rather than a political prisoner, the Cambodian government was open to the possibility of his release. Ironically, there was not an international or national body dedicated to giving grassroots legal aid support to this boy at the time. Karen founded IBJ in the year 2000 to build systematic support for the hundreds of thousands of prisoners, just like this boy, in countries throughout the world who could significantly benefit from receiving legal assistance. Every day, Karen leads IBJ in an uphill battle against injustice. Her organization has expanded to 16 countries, with permanent staff in China, Cambodia, Rwanda, Burundi, Zimbabwe and India. Slowly, Karen’s dream is becoming a reality through the hard work of IBJ’s staff, volunteers and partners. IBJ is now facing greater demand for its services than ever, and its programs are no less ambitious. The organization needs additional resources to bring stability and continuity to its programs - a spark to ignite justice for vulnerable communities around the world. I am a strong supporter of IBJ and am inviting you to join me in this movement. If we all do our part, we can make an important difference. Help Karen continue her courageous work by rallying in support of her uncompromising dedication to legal rights. Every dollar you give will make a critical difference. ~ David Little International Bridges to Justice Board Member ……………………………………………………………………………………………… During this campaign, your tax-deductible donations will be matched by up to $125,000 through the generous funding of a private donor. My goal is to raise $1000 between now and December 10, 2009, International Human Rights Day, in order to support these Fellows and the changes they strive tirelessly to achieve. Change cannot happen overnight, but with your help, we will move one step closer to supporting advocates who fight against injustice on a daily basis. Donate by December 10 and help International Bridges to Justice build a strong support network to create a more just world.