Interview with 133 Member Wyatt Crosswhite

When did you join AI, and why?

I joined group 133 early last fall. My parents have been members of AI since the early 70's, so I grew up reading a lot of Amnesty literature. I was always impressed with the organization and wanted to get involved after college when I came across the 133 flyer in the Somerville Tibetan store.

What was the first meeting like?

I had no idea what to expect when I first walked into 58 Day. I was pretty quiet and subdued, just trying to figure out what Group 133 was all about. Needless to say I was greatly impressed and encouraged by the members and what they were fighting for and decided to make it a monthly ritual.

Can you tell us about some of your roles in Amnesty, or what role you would like to play?

I don't have a very large role within the group. Due to this I write as many letters on Amnesty issues as possible. As well as this, I strive to spread AI's and my own personal agenda throughout the public, be it through tabling or just discussing with acquaintances. [Editor's Note: Wyatt just assumed the role of co-coordinator of the Death Penalty Action Team]

What was your best/most successful AI experience?

Probably the Refugee Pen Pal Project. My pen pal was Serbian and had to flee his country since he would not partake in the massacres of ethnic Albanians. He was very lonely and depressed. Several times in each letter he would thank me for taking the time to write to him. Most AI related letters I write do not get a response and it can be frustrating at times. In this case though, I got to reap the fruits of my labor first hand and really felt like I was helping another human being through a tough time.

Your Worst?

The fact that an organization such as AI needs to exist. To correct wrongs, wrongs have to be committed. I get very depressed and pessimistic about our future when I read about the agony that one human will inflict on another fellow human. It's hard for me to believe that humankind has reached its nadir yet with the steady increase in genocides and atrocities we have witnessed over the last quarter century.

Who are your role models?

Alexander Solzhenitsyn minus his nationalistic tendencies, Emma Goldman for refusing to conform to society's unjust standards and oppressive stereotypes and Muhammad Ali for his unique blend of mental, moral and physical strength.