After a long, three-years of no in-person events, we are excited to let you know that Amnesty International Canadian Section (English Speaking)(AICSES) will be holding our 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) the 16, 17 & 18 June 2023, in what is known today as Ottawa, the traditional and unceded territories of the Algonquin and Anishinaabe People.
The AGM will be held in-person, and we invite members, activists, volunteers and human rights allies to join our team as we commence the important work of engagement and governance. Given that it is an odd-numbered year, the AGM will be a conference-style event including a range of activism, educational and governance sessions. The theme of this year’s meeting will be focused on one of our strategic priorities to Connect Movements.
“Amnesty Canada has a long history as a recognized and respected human rights leader. Now we are being called to do more to connect, align, amplify and build power with others.”
AICSES Strategic Plan 2022-2030 (View PDF)
CONNECT MOVEMENTS
This year’s AGM will allow our many internal and external stakeholders to join us in fostering a sense of shared purpose. By working to (re)connect us within our own movement, we will be better positioned to connect with and support partners and movements to amplify the impact of the critical work of human rights.
In the next few weeks, you will receive information about accommodation options, travel, and invitations to participate or volunteer. If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch.
MEMBERSHIP
Make sure your membership is up-to-date! Only Amnesty members are eligible to move and second resolutions, run for election, nominate candidates and vote in the election. Membership is established 30 days prior to the AGM and determines eligibility for participation in governance activities. The deadline is 17 May 2023 to be a member for the 2023 AGM.
VOLUNTEER
If you would like to volunteer at the 2023 AGM, please review our volunteer roles and submit an application form.
RESOLUTIONS
Resolutions, including amendments to the By-laws or Standing Orders, may be submitted by any member of the Branch and by the Board of Directors (in accordance with Article 6.05 c of By-law No. 1). Previously, the support of 5 additional members was required. This is no longer necessary according to our new By-laws. View our resolutions guidelines (PDF).
The deadline for resolutions is midnight on 18 March 2023 in your respective time zone (90 days prior to the AGM). Resolutions received after that deadline may be considered by the AGM if two-thirds of those registered for the AGM agree to accept them for discussion.
DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS
Find out more about the nomination process to become an elected member of Amnesty Canada’s Board of Directors. If you would like to request a Nomination Form or more information about board positions, please get in touch with the Board Nominations Committee.
If you would like your name to appear on the online ballot, please send your electronic nomination form by no later than midnight your local time on 28 April 2023. For those who may wish to submit physical nominations these can only be received in our Ottawa and Toronto offices by no later than 4:00 pm EST on 28 April 2023.
ONLINE ELECTIONS
All members will be sent an electronic ballot for Board elections at the end of May 2023 leading up to the AGM. Candidate profiles and nomination videos will be shared on the AGM Event website in early May.
We look forward to seeing you in Ottawa!
Sincerely,
The AGM Working Group
