On Sunday, the 8th of December 2024, a service was held by Wearside Amnesty International at Sunderland Minster to mark Human Rights Day.
Pam Wortley a volunteer with FODI and speaking for the Newcastle Stop the War Coalition, spoke passionately against the war in Gaza. Jane Nikolarakis, trustee and volunteer with FODI, talked about support and help given to asylum seekers and refugees in Sunderland by FODI, saying it has been a challenging year due to increased numbers arriving and the shocking riots in August, which had left many people afraid to go out. Jane described some of the work done by FODI, saying that how the people and communities of Sunderland came together after the riots, and the Unity in The Community event in October sent out a message that hate has no place in Sunderland. Jane thanked Chris and Canon Clare for the amazing support given by the Minster. Canon Clare lit the Amnesty Candle, and Chris asked us to take a moment to reflect on human rights.
Pam Wortley Fodi volunteer and Jane Nikolarakis FODI trustee and Volunteer
There were several speeches, including one from the No To Hassocksfield Campaign, Amnesty International Write for Rights campaign, and a moving speech by a Ukrainian Refugee, saying what enormous support had been given to them by the people and communities of Sunderland, ending with a heartfelt wish for peace in the world.