After taking a course in social and civil movements, Rachel Harman said she was inspired to make a change, starting in her own backyard.

Harman is one of several students working to put together Towson’s branch of Amnesty International, which advocates for those who have been abused.

“We’re looking to promote awareness and for people who are passionate for taking action and being involved,” she said.

The organization works to protect people wherever justice, freedom, truth and dignity are denied, Harman explained. Currently it’s the world’s largest grassroots human rights organization. The international group not only investigates and exposes abuse, but also educates and mobilizes the public, and helps create safer communities.

“Our main goal with this organization is to get Towson students to be more informed and realize how many things are wrong in this world,” Harman said.

Harman said Towson’s branch of Amnesty International looks to localize the global organization’s efforts, finding out about local rallies and joining forces with other Maryland equality groups.

“We want people to be as informed as they can be,” Harman said. “Even if it’s so small such as donating money, every little bit helps.”

While the establishment of Towson’s Amnesty International group will be formally voted on by Student Government Association Wednesday, they are already trying to spread the word about their mission on campus.

“Starting the Amnesty International group on campus is really important because it is the largest grassroots organization for human rights in the world,” sophomore and prospective member Emily Voorhees said. “It’s time for Towson University to learn about it and get involved.”

Amnesty International is a global organization with more than 3 million supporters, activists and volunteers in more than 150 countries.