ACTION ALERT

ACTION ALERT * ACTION ALERT

There are a few social issues that use our tax dollars to cause harm, without our knowledge and consent. Loans and subsidies for weapons production and transfers make up an unfortunate exception. One of the largest arms transfers in U.S. history, a subsidized sale of helicopter gunships to Turkey, may soon take place. In the past, U.S. weapons have been used to commit human rights violations against the Kurds in Turkey, and it is feared that new transfers may continue the pattern. We think it is wrong; we think it is un-American.

Won't you take a few minutes to ask your members of Congress to let you know where they stand? We've provided a sample draft. Original letters are most effective. We can make a difference. Thank you!

SAMPLE LETTER TO MEMBERS OF CONGRESS

Dear Senator or Congressperson ______,

As you may know, Amnesty International opposes continued U.S. arms shipments to Turkey. Amnesty believes Turkey has one of the worst human rights records in the world, especially with respect to its Kurdish minority. In particular, Amnesty opposes the proposed sale of $4 billion in attack helicopters produced by the Bell Textron Corporation in Texas. Since Congress must approve or reject the transfer of these weapons to Turkey, would you kindly inform me of your position on the proposed sale?

Sincerely,

Don't know your Congressperson? Their names are found at the House and Senate web sites:

http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW.html

http://www.senate.gov/

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