Advocacy letter template for individuals

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Dear Sir/Madame:

Greetings to you with the peace of Jesus Christ. I am a member of a historic peace church that has proclaimed the message of peace and reconciliation around the world. As a member of the world body of Mennonite churches in sixty-six countries on five continents, I come to you today in support of my Mennonite brothers and sisters in Vietnam.

I understand that much progress has been made for the development of Vietnam. I am pleased to see Vietnam contribute much to the international community of nations. I affirm Vietnam's policy of freedom of religion as guaranteed in the Constitution. I also understand that there are thriving established religious communities--Buddhist, Cao Dai, Catholic, and Evangelical Christian, among others.

I have heard and read reports that Vietnamese authorities have arrested Mennonite church leader NGUYEN HONG QUANG, and four of his colleagues, on charges of “obstructing persons carrying out official duties” [Cong An ("Public Security"] newspaper on June 12, 2004). Since then I have learned of subsequent arrests of other Mennonite leaders. It has also been reported that Mennonite church members have been harassed and physically beaten. In addition, some claim that their homes and personal effects have been destroyed. Worse, I fear that lives may have been lost.

I believe that what Vietnamese authorities are doing, if they indeed are doing so, is not in keeping with Vietnam’s constitution, which guarantees religious freedom for all Vietnamese citizens. If the Vietnamese government were to act in such a manner it would be in complete contradiction with the commitments officials have made in favour of and respect for human rights. As well, such an action would be in violation of the right of freedom of worship. I am also concerned that the arrest of NGUYEN HONG QUANG and his colleagues is in violation of the constitutional guarantee of freedom of worship. More recently I have also become concerned about a new Ordinance on Religion, No. 21/2004/PL-UBTVQH11 scheduled to come into effect on the 15-11-2004, and that this new law will further restrict freedom of worship in Vietnam.

Mennonites from Canada, the United States and other countries have worked alongside the Vietnamese people for fifty years, providing emergency assistance to displaced persons, giving medical care, supporting educational programs and encouraging agricultural development and income generation. Much of the support was given during the time of the American war in the southern part of the country, but aid was also given to victims of war in the north. After 1975 our churches contributed significantly to development programs in Vietnam which are ongoing and well documented.

I urge the government of Vietnam to respect and guarantee the right of freedom of worship for Christians in Vietnam, and I plead to the Government of Canada to promote such behaviour on the part of the government of Vietnam.

I ask your protection of the lives and liberty of all members of churches, and in particular the rights of our brother, NGUYEN HONG QUANG and his colleagues.

Sincerely,