Steve Abrams CPA, Human Rights Activist 33 West 93 Street New York, NY10025

Many delegates to the 1980 International Council Meeting visited the Matthausen concentration camp. As we walked, all of us in tears, a young German woman asked: “how could my parents have allowed this to happen?” Her question reinforced my commitment to empower individuals to combat human rights abuses worldwide, so that my children would never have to ask such a question. For 25 years I have fulfilled that commitment through service to Amnesty International.

I seek election at a time when Board REFORM is essential. During my earlier Board terms, the Board facilitated the work of Amnesty members who take action in response to AI’s unique appeals for Prisoners of Conscience and victims of torture. In contrast, during my recent tenure, I observed a secretive and inconsistent decision-making process that generated negative press coverage, cost the Board the trust of many dedicated activists and damaged organizational effectiveness. That is why I joined in forming the REFORM slate with Govind Acharya, Rick Halperin, Phyllis Pautrat, Magdaleno Rose-Avila and Paul Schulte. I urge you to vote for all of us (http://www.amnesty-volunteer.org/usa/reform).

As AI expands its mission, we on the REFORM slate are committed to focusing on individual victims of human rights abuses, to strengthening AIUSA’s grassroots activism, to maintaining AI’s reputation for impartiality and to promoting responsible, open and accountable Board decision-making. With your support, we will restore the trust of AIUSA members in the Board.

I welcome your questions.Email: , Ph: 212 663 6334

Amnesty Experience and Activities

• Active member Group 11 NYC 1978-Present
• Member AIUSA Board of Directors 1980-1985
  served as Treasurer 1980-83, Vice Chair 1983-84 and Chair of International Committee 1984-85
• Member of AIUSA Board of Directors (filling vacancy) 2001 and 2003
• Served on Nominating Committee 1985
• International Financial Control Committee (elected by International Council Meeting) 1981-85 and 1991-97
• International Executive Committee (International Treasurer) 1985-1991
• Participated in every International Council Meeting 1980-97 as AIUSA delegate or as international officeholder

Other Relevent Experience

• Director South Shore Bank Chicago Il. 1978-84
• President Puerto Rican Dance Theatre 1975-1980
• Active member United for a Fair Economy/Responible Wealth 1998-present
• Accountant for and adviser to many non profit organizations and foundations
• Member Nine G Housing Cooperative Board -President, Treasurer 1994-present