SIR, This year while I'm writing my Christmas cards, I will also be adding to my list a person I've never met or even spoken to. That person is Liu Ping from China. Amnesty International is taking action for Liu Ping because in June this year she was sentenced to six-and-a-half years in jail. She is one of many activists who have been harassed or detained for their links with the New Citizen's Movement, a peaceful network of activists that aims to promote government transparency, help the weak and expose corruption. Liu Ping is at risk of torture and other ill-treatment and, as she is being denied the medical care she needs, there are serious concerns for her health. Amnesty International considers Liu Ping to be a prisoner of conscience. Letters of solidarity - or just a short message on a simple greetings card - can make a real difference to people like Liu Ping, imprisoned or at risk for exercising their human rights. It reminds them they are not alone, and by showing the authorities that the world knows what's going on, it can help to secure a prisoner's release, stop the harassment or change an unjust law. So, I would encourage all Beacon readers to get involved in Amnesty's Write for Rights campaign this Christmas. Amnesty Monmouth will be holding a Write for Rights event in Monmouth Priory on Saturday 20th December, from 10am to 12pm. Amnesty will be running the coffee shop, with coffee, tea and festive cakes on sale, as well as providing greetings cards and information about the people in need of help. Everyone is most welcome. The group will also be accepting donations (money or dry grocery items) for a local refugee centre. It takes just a few minutes to become part of the solution. If you can't make it to the Priory coffee morning event on Saturday, there's still a way to help. Simply visit Amnesty's website: http://www.amnesty.org.uk/write">www.amnesty.org.uk/write and you'll find all the information you need to get started. Marian Fretter (Amnesty International, Monmouth & District Group)