Thousands raise voices against poverty

Thousands of people around the world joined together on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty to raise their voices and demand action from governments. Friday, 17 October, was a call to everyone, from policy makers to the public, to recognise the rights and dignity of people living in poverty.

Amnesty International groups in 15 countries joined with other NGOs, civil society organizations, people living in poverty and supporters from around the world to raise their voices.

Events on the day included street exhibitions, film premieres, public testimonies and concerts.

Amnesty International's Indian section and the National Confederation of Dalit Organisations (NACDOR) organised a "National Take a Pledge, Take Action Day" in New Delhi at the Vitthalbhai Patel House Resident's Lawn.

"Other than achieving alliances and new partnerships, with this event we could involve poor and marginalised people in our activities. So many people from different backgrounds joined in, all of us demanding equal access to rights for people living in poverty,' said a spokesperson from Amnesty International's Indian section.

Over 500 activists in Mexico signed a banner petition calling on all governments to meet the Millennium Development Goal targets by 2015. The banner will be presented to the Secretary General of the United Nations on December 10th, the 60th Anniversary of the UDHR.