American Friends Service Committee (AFSC)

Get involved! Join AFSC in its work for peace and social justice!

AFSC is an international peace and social justice organization, and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Since its founding by Quakers in 1917, the AFSC has brought people of diverse backgrounds together to work for and promote human rights in the United States and throughout the world. Its work is based on a Quaker belief in the dignity and worth of every person, and a faith in the power of love and nonviolence to bring about change.

In 2002, for the first time in American history, the Bush administration initiated a radical new policy allowing the torture of prisoners of war and other captives. Reports confirm that California-licensed physicians, psychologists, and nurses have participated in these acts. Additionally, some California professionals have also failed to notify authorities when acts of torture have taken place.

As professional licensure and codes of ethics are regulated by states, California has the obligation to notify members of laws concerning torture that may result in their prosecution.

A broad coalition of medical, human rights and legal organizations are petitioning the State of California to inform its licensees of legal prohibitions against torture.

The Petition Team will help identify, organize, and carry out petition campaigns designed to promote the AFSC Stop Torture mission and will:

• Create a plan for gathering 10,000 petition signatures and presentation to public officials;
• Recruit, train, manage, and inspire petition-gatherers to meet and exceed signature-gathering goals;
• Develop and meet regularly to monitor progress toward goals;
• Track and report progress regularly;
• Work with allies and stakeholders to maximize volunteer signature drive;
• Strategically target neighborhoods, events, and sites; and
• Utilize internet petition technology.

Hours: 8-10 hours/month (or as available).
Location: Varies.
Direct supervisor: Eisha Mason.

Please email resume, reference, and statement of interest to Lida Sparer at lsparer@afsc.org, or call (213) 489-1900 x112 for more information.