In Memory:
Peter Benenson, 1921-2005, founder of Amnesty International, chose an organizational symbol of a candle wrapped in barbed wire. It is based on the Chinese proverb, "It is better to light one candle than curse the darkness."
Said Benenson, "The candle burns not for us, but for all those whom we failed to rescue from prison, who were tortured, who were kidnapped, who 'disappeared.' That is what the candle is for." Today Amnesty International is into its 44th year and has become the largest independent human rights organization with 1.8 million members and committed supporters worldwide.
Benenson leaves us with a wonderful legacy, as well as the need for us all to pick up the torch, or candle, now that he is gone.
www.amnesty.org