Leave a legacy

 

“Only when the last prisoner of conscience has been freed, when the last torture chamber has been closed, when the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights is a reality for the world’s people, will our work be done.”
- Peter Benenson, Founder of Amnesty International


At the very core of Amnesty is the belief that the actions of individuals can make a difference. What better way to demonstrate this than by leaving a legacy to us and helping to change the future for the generations to come?

  

Why leave a legacy to Amnesty International?

Amnesty believes your Will can be influential and do more- it can also be your legacy to future generations; not only of your money and possessions, but of your values and aspirations. By leaving a legacy to Amnesty International, you can have your values heard and beliefs represented beyond your lifespan.  

 

John Lyon is a retired Merchant Marine Captain and a grandfather to thirteen grandchildren. John emigrated to NZ when he was 19 and has been a loyal supporter of Amnesty International for over twenty years. Born in London and having lived through World War II, John is well aware of the fragility of peace and recognises the importance of Amnesty International in making sure dictators and military juntas are exposed for what they are.


"When I read about Aung San Suu Kyi’s house arrest after her party won the 1990 Burma elections, I was outraged and wanted to do something. I felt powerless and knew that as an individual I could never bring about change. Luckily I was able to have my voice heard through Amnesty International. Amnesty very much works like the principle of a ship’s rope; a single strand is not very strong, but combined with other strands it forms a unity that can be used to hold the biggest ships. By leaving a bequest to Amnesty International I will continue to speak out against injustice – even when I am no longer around." - John Lyon, Amnesty Supporter

 


What your legacy can achieve

As long as there are people like you, Amnesty will be able to expose acts of injustice, torture and violence and stand side by side with those whose human rights are violated. We will continue to defend individuals at risk, campaign to stop violence against women and children, demand dignity for people born in extreme poverty, and hold governments and corporations accountable. Until justice, equality, freedom and dignity is enjoyed by every human being; we will not let the flame go out.

 

 

Learn more about how you can leave a legacy to Amnesty International here.