Freedom Now - We get prisoners of conscience out of jail!
|
| What's your parting tip? Adversity leads to strength and persistence to success. |
Comments that readers have made about this submission:
I was seven months into a 17-year prison sentence in Burma when I learned that a Harvard graduate, Jared Genser, was working on my case. It was the third time I had been detained in Burma for peaceful support of the indigenous democracy movement. The military regime persecutes, imprisons and murders those who challenge them, and they were determined this time to silence me. Over the following months, through embassy visits, I was able to learn about the progress Jared was making. Thanks in large part to his focus and advocacy, US Congressmen, Senators and the Department of State became increasingly vocal in backing my case, and this in turn brought increasing pressure on the military regime from the UK, the EU, the international media and eventually the UN. All this gave me great hope in prison and was instrumental in causing the regime to back down after 14 months and release me. The UN responded to Jared’s petition with an unequivocal opinion that my incarceration was arbitrary and illegal. Given this judgement from the UN, other international bodies and governments were able to appreciate the facts of the case – a conclusion which previously many had been unable or unwilling to acknowledge. I owe it to Jared that he appreciated the facts of the case before all that! Since then I had the honour of speaking at the public launch of Freedom Now in Washington DC. Meeting all the board members was as inspiring as much as it was a pleasure. Their talent, commitment and track records give Freedom Now a unique energy. I have the strongest personal reasons to be grateful to Jared, and I have the fullest confidence that Freedom Now will be making an increasing impact around the globe, for families and for entire countries. I wish them every success.
James Mawdsley - Lancashire, UKThis organization reaches beyond commerce and touches lives. What could be faster than that? Inspiring, fearless, and worthy.
V.P. Walling - Los Angeles California USAFreedom Now is perhaps the most exciting human rights organization to come into existence in the last ten years. It has a remarkable track record of freeing political prisoners. In addition, the structure can be duplicated across the country. Wherever there are people who want to help others to enjoy the ability to speak and act freely, they can organize an affiliate of Freedom Now. They can bear witness to tyranny. That more than anything scares tyrants.
Robert Precht - Ann Arbor, MichiganFreedom now not only has a terrific mandate for human freedom, but they are clearly achieving real tangible results. The fact that they were able to assist in freeing a Pakistani Christian on death row, even after 911, is clearly impressive. The obvious passion that the group feels about their mission coupled with their early success will no doubt push this group into the spotlight, leading to even greater credibility and success.
M. Bowen - Washington, DC USAI have worked with Jared on several of these cases he has taken up and can testify to his dedication, efficiency and commitment.
Mark Rowland - London, UKA great cause and handled with skill and impressive professionalism.
Jay Harris - Alexandria, VA, USAThis is one of the most interesting social entrepreneurship intiatives I can think of. We at Harvard's Kennedy School are very proud that it was founded by one of our graduates. Freedom now both protects individual rights and also educates many about political oppression around the world, and it leverages considerable legal and advocacy resources with a very modest budget.
Joseph J. McCarthy, Associate Dean, Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University - Cambridge, MA, USAthis guy is very inspiring. he will go very far
jamie cowland - london ukI met Jared Genser where he was a third-year law student. I was so impressed by this incredible young man who, at that time, was fighting to gain freedom for the British citizen, Brian Mawdsley who was being held in a Burma jail. Jared worked tirelessly on Mr. Mawdsley's behalf, and I do believe, it was Jared's efforts that in the end were paramount in gaining the release of Mr. Mawdsley. And now, through Freedom Now, Jared has been able to do even more and will continue to be a beacon of light for all those being deprived of their freedom. I vote strongly for FREEDOM NOW. Thank you.
Phyllis A. Roberts - Mt. AIry, MarylandI am another former prisoner of conscience who was given hope and legal assistance by Freedom Now. State security courts in Egypt had sentenced me to 7 years in prison for the work of my human rights center Ibn Khaldun Center for Development studies. Freedom Now prepared my appeal, but fortunately I obtained a full acquittal from Egypt's highest appeals court. The world needs more Freedom Now!
Dr. Saad Eddin Ibrahim - Cairo, EgyptThey use technology to free people and inform the right people to resolve these difficult human rights issues! Todd
Todd Sedmak - Washington, DC USAvery very effective in organizing activities in rescuing dissidents/political prisoners.
Jamie Zhou - chicago il usaJared Genser’s Freedom Now is an extraordinary enterprise. And I will never need it. I am a coward -- or at least I think I might be. I do know that I have never put my freedom at risk in the service of democracy, religion or justice. I have never steeled myself for imprisonment, possible torture or hunger, or separation from family in the service of an ideal. But some of those rare, brave individuals who have done this have Freedom Now to thank for their freedom found. As a staffer on Capitol Hill, I have seen first hand the strength, intelligence and energy with which Jared Genser navigates the political world, the media, and the masses to bring our heroes home. In short, Freedom Now is a modern-day superhero.
Daniel McGlinchey - Washington, DCThe public relations firm where I work helped Freedom Now earlier this year in the effort to free Yang Jianli from Chinese prison. The group demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to Dr. Yang's case and will no doubt continue to do so until his release. I believe Freedom Now will build on its previous success and become a strong force in the field of human rights.
Jill Lewis - Alexandria, VA USATwo days after my husband Yang Jianli, a pro-democracy activist, was detained in China in April 2002, Jared Genser phoned me to express his deep concerns and his eagerness to offer help. During our very early conversations, he told me that “my work requires perseverance and persistence, and that’s what I have.” Over the past 18 months, Mr. Genser has shown me and many people these very traits. I’m deeply grateful to this gifted young man and his wonderful group of lawyers at Freedom Now. They pour their hearts out and devote their time and energy to help people who are in desperate situations. Under Mr. Genser’s leadership, Freedom Now brought my husband’s case to UN and won the case. Mr. Genser has been working closely with the members and staffers on the Capital Hill to continuingly gain support from US Congress. Thanks to his tireless efforts and thoughtful guidance, we were so happy to see that US Senate and House of Representatives passed resolutions respectively calling for the release of my husband. Mr. Genser also works with US State Department to keep my husband’s name on the US government’s priority list of human rights dialogues with the Chinese government. He always tells me that “Let’s put one foot in front of another, take one step at a time, and never give up.” Mr. Genser and Freedom Now have provided me and my family not only all the important legal assistance, but also offered us great comfort, support and hope during this difficult time for my family.
Christina Fu - Boston, MA USAWork like yours will hopfully someday help the world understand what freedom is. Let's hope that we don't lose anymore of our freedoms here in the United Staes. Keep up the great work.
Ed Kleinman - Baltimore, MDit's easy on a nice day to grab a placard, head to a park or other congregational gathering and participate in an event: waving signs, shouting slogans and listening to celebrities vie for their moment in the spotlight. al to be quickly forgotten along with any victims who were suppoosed to benefit. it's also an "easy" way to assuage any guilt that those of us who live under freedom's banner, might feel, with respect to others who aren't quite as fortunate. it's quite another thing to head for the trenches, slop in the mud of political and diplomatic intrique as well as dealing with the domestic issues and "unsavory characters" whose decisions impact upon individuals in foreign lands that are, perhaps, not quite as "liberal" as more democratic regimes. this type of work not only demands considerable intelligence and various skills and disciplines, but also tenacity, neverending focus and an effectively compassionate heart. a heart without a head is useless. a head without a heart is a criminal waste. i've had the pleasure of knowing jared and have met several of his associates in this enterprise. jared and the rest of the associated men and women are blessed with both the heart to be moved by the plight of others and the head to be able to effectively rescue these individual lives. they, literally, know "for whom the bells toll!" i am honored to be able to add my endorsement and state my pride in both their ongoing work and accomplishments. i look forward to more successes, both publicly known and those privately, but no less important, quiet victories. my congratulations to freedom now for the honor you've bestowed and to you for recognizing their most important work!
Frederick C. Taylor - Marietta, Georgia USAFreedom Now is doing a wonderful job fighting to free "prisoners of conscience" -- and training others to do the same -- wherever such prisoners are. (Unfortunately there are too many of them in too many places.) Freedom Now demonstrates that, sometimes at the least, adversity builds strength and persistence does lead to success.
Yale Kamisar - Professor of Law , University of Michigan Law School - Ann Arbor, MI USAThis is one of the most inspired efforts I've ever encountered. Jared's passion and commitment are truly humbling.
Susan Guindi - Ann Arbor, MIThis is precisely the type of organization that Fast Company should support. It brings justice everyday to the world by leveraging bright, young lawyers to work on human rights cases.
Tom Dohrmann - Washington, DC USAIt sounds like Freedom Now is doing some exceptional and uniquely inspiring work - just the sort of company that should make the Fast 50!
Lisa Ponker - Montreal, CanadaIt has been a privilege and inspiration to follow the work of Kennedy School graduate Jared Genser and his work with Freedom Now. He and this organization are making an important difference.
Curtis Nelson, Harvard University - Cambridge, MA USAThe ground breaking efforts of Freedom Now on behalf of those suffering unfounded imprisonment demonstrates compassion in action. Jared remarkably leads a team of very busy lawyers who volunteer to undertake and write petitions and briefs. His enthusiasm for each case compells politicians and diplomats to care for the helpless in a world that is generally too busy to pause and lend a hand. In such a short time, many lives have been touched.
Ann Buwalda, Jubilee Campaign - Washington DCThank you Jared and Freedom Now for filing my case with the United Nations and for causing US Senators to write my government to free me from jail. The efforts of Freedom Now made a difference to give me freedom and a future.
Ayub Masih -Freedom Now represents what's possible when a few committed individuals believe passionately in justice and democracy, and use their talents to mobilize government and non-government orgs. to affect political prisoners. I look forward to learning more about Freedom Now and Mr. Genser, and am inspired by their work and the incredibly important work in front of them.
L Bishop - Davidsonville, MDPassion and exuberance are the words that come to my mind when I think of Freedom Now! and the truly awesome work that it has accomplished in such a short period of time. I have been touched by the people involved in the organization and awed by their ability to bring their various expertises together and focus world-wide attention on people who are imprisoned because of their beliefs. It is truly inspiring to see the ultimate goal of the organization realized, the liberation of "prisoners of conscience." Thank you.
Chandra C. Davis - Houston, TX USAI couldn't imagine what nominee could be a faster company than Freedom Now. With incredibly focused and high-level advocacy, lobbying, and media and legal work, Freedom Now saves lives.
Aaron Goldzimer - Washington, D.C., U.S.A.Freedom Now's commitment to representing those otherwise abandoned is truly inspiring. And even beyond its mission, as a former board member, I have been amazed by the group's sound structure and growth, and I have no doubt that it will continue to prosper in the future.
Nicole Herron -- Northern California Innocence Project - Santa Clara, CA USASome feel that human rights law has no teeth to be truly effective. Freedom now has convinced me that one can make a tangible difference in the world.
Yoonah Lee - Portland, OregonI have nothing but the highest praise for the work done by Jared on Dr. Yang Jianli's case. His participation, suggestions, recommendations, and expertise were invaluable in helping us build the strongest possible case. I cannot imagine how things would turn out to be without his enthusiasm, diligence, persistence and priceless help through this difficult time. And I believe firmly that the involvement of Freedom Now will successfully help to bring about freedom to Dr. Yang in the near future.
Elaina Rao - Boston, MA USAI have been involved in a group effort to rescue Dr. Yang Jianli since he was detained in China. I have to say that not until Jared stepped in, the effort was not efficient enough and target was not clear enough. It was Jared who brought this case to the attention of United Nations human right experts and hence focused our efforts in the right direction. The way that Freedom-now works is kind of unique and efficient. I felt that Jianli is lucky that he gets helps from Freedom-now. I hope more people will learn about it.
Han Shaohan - Silicon Valley, CaliforniaThe work of Freedom Now is cumulative. They are not only making a difference, but enabling committed, extraordinary people to continue making a difference. Good luck.
Burck Smith - Washington, DC USAJared Genser and Freedom Now are truly inspirational: a dedicated group of concerned citizens who -- through sheer tenacity, persistence, and will -- are influencing world governments and institutions to acknowledge gross human rights injustices and to free prisoners of conscience. Equally impressive is the courage of conviction these prisoners have shown in the face of extraordinary adversity and physical and psychological torture. I have had the opportunity to work with Freedom Now and meet several of Freedom Now's clients -- to hear them discuss their struggles against religious and political oppression truly brings a tear to the eye. Jared Genser and Freedom Now are forcing the global community to stand up, take notice, and join the fight for human rights. It's about time!
S. Kuehl - Arlington, VAWhat an outstanding organization. They are seeing and saving the otherwise invisible men and women of the world.
Amanda Bowker - New York, NYFew people have the courage of their convictions as well as effectiveness to the extent displayed by Jared and his organization. They fill a real vacuum in the success of democracy.
Stephen H. Baum - Greenwich, CT, USAFreedom Now acts nimbly and flexibly to use whatever tools - legal, press, or political - to help free prisoners of conscience. I think this entrepreneurial aspect of the organization is what will make it replicable and scalable across the world, and successful. This model needs more recognition, so others can adopt it and more innocent people freed. If a new model of wireless phone sales helps by increasing communication, how much more good can come from a new model for freeing prisoners of conscience?
Neil Allison - Washington, DC USAFreedom Now demonstrates that even a few committed people can make a significant difference in the world. They are a role model to other young people who may believe in justice and democracy but don't believe they can affect change. Fast Company can help them believe by telling Freedom Now's story.
Nancy Boswell, Transparency International USA - Washington, DC, USAWe need more organizations like Freedom Now --especially in the post 9/11 world. Godspeed to these "fast" guys.
Cosby Hunt - Washington, DCFreedom Now has done tremendous work on behalf of Dr. Yang Jianli. The organization's focused, multi-pronged approach to human rights advocacy has resulted in a decision by the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention that Dr. Yang is being arbitrarily detained and resolutions in the House and the Senate calling for his release. I've also had the good fortune to sit in on one of Jared's training sessions in which he walks through the steps of Freedom Now's approach,thereby providing the tools to others to engage in similar kinds of advocacy. So not only is Freedom Now getting prisoners of conscience released (or at least keeping their cases front and center on relevant radar screens), but it is also inspiring and training others to get involved. This is a great model of a small organization successfully doing fundamentally important work, and an inspiration to us all.
Andrea Worden - New Haven, CTNow, more than ever, at a time when we need to return to acknowledging the inviolable dignity of the human being, we need Freedom NOW.
Sam Chaltain - Arlington, VAVery impressive and honorable work. Because of the symbollic nature of these cases, you are changing nations and their governments. Thank you.
Ben Smilowitz - Washington, DC and West Hartford, CT USAFreedom Now has that rare combination of passion, strategy and tenacity that makes an organisation truly effective and inspiring. Jared Genser and his colleagues are having a significant impact in challenging human rights injustices, regardless of the colour, creed or country of the victims. They deserve our wholehearted support.
Nick Bent - London, EnglandOften times cases likes these are concealed from the public's attentions as well as from the UN and other international NGOs. The inspirational work of Freedom Now is not only necessary but also imperative in order to guarantee freedom to those who are denied [it] the most and whose stories are often never told. Hopefully, Freedom Now will serve as a catalyst for the development of similar organizations worldwide. Let Freedom ring!
Khyati Desai - Arlington, VA USAAmazing organisation. To have achieved what they have done and to have done so with such amazing effectivness in a world which seems increasingly less interested in fighting for a cause is an amazing thing. I am not suprised to see the company here, but I would be very suprised to not see it recognised. We need organisations and people like this more and more each day and thus it is essential to recognise those with the skill, drive, passion and bravery to do such a thing.
Adam Gumbiner - London, UKIn the current global climate, where issues of trade and economic interdependence, and diplomatic niceties are increasingly overshadowing liberty and freedom, the work of Freedom Now is very relevant and needed. Kudos to the Freedom Now team for choosing and pursuing a very important mission that impacts not just those whose freedom is threatened but all other citizens of this world. Venky Raghavendra, Director, South Asia Partnerships Ashoka: Innovators for the Public
Venky Raghavendra - Arlington, VAFreedom WOW!
William Weed - Syracuse, NY, USAThe social entrepreneurs at Freedom Now leverage a small budget for high-impact. In today's world climate their work is not only needed, but crucial, and this group understand how to affect true change. They are certainly a group to watch.
Grant La Rouche, Associate Director for Worldwide Development, Ashoka: Innovators for the Public - Rosslyn, VAI have known Jared Genser and Freedom Now for some months, and have been deeply impressed not only by their commitment to human rights advocacy, but also by their standard of professionalism. Although currently entirely run by volunteers who work in their spare time on a pro bono basis, Freedom Now has had some remarkable successes and is more professional than many large fully-staffed organisations. The quality of their presentation and their knowledge of how to advocate for prisoners of conscience is extremely impressive. Furthermore, the recent training materials developed by Freedom Now and presented in a training course for human rights advocates is a very valuable contribution. I have absolutely no reservations in recommending Freedom Now, for the quality of its work, the speed of its growth and the dedication of those who run it.
Benedict Rogers - Washington DCI have had the privilege of working with Jared Genser, and under his leadership, he has quickly cultivated Freedom Now into an entrepreneurial human rights powerhouse that saves lives, literally. All tyrannical and oppressive regimes beware: Freedom Now consists of an effective combination of intelligent, creative, and tenacious attorneys and human rights activists who are tirelessly committed to freeing individuals wrongly held in violation of international and human rights law. From what started as a long, grass roots effort to free British national James Mawdsley from solitary confinement in Burma for distributing pro-democracy leaflets, Freedom Now was born. Since then, Freedom Now has quickly developed into an efficient, battle-tested, human rights organization that wages a highly effective front lines war against those who seek to incarcerate humans for inhumane reasons in inhumane conditions. Where relying on legal remedies alone could have morbid results for Freedom Now clients who are held by regimes who do not respect the most basic human rights laws, Freedom Now takes a highly innovative approach of combining the synergies of legal advocacy, political pressure, and public relations efforts that has now undoubtedly saved several lives and will continue to save many more.
Jason B. Savitz, Esq. - New York, New YorkFreedom Now deserves to be in the fastest company. The imperatives represented by this sort of work are urgent and often do not wait for a moment. Support for these compelling cases makes the prospect of law for all more real and closer to realization.
Karin Hillhouse, Editor, Changemakers.net Library - Washington, D.C.Few organizations could squeeze such incredible and righteous real results from such a small band of energetic, talented, committed individuals. They deserve whatever financial and human support can be lent, and would bring honor to Fast Company's endorsement.
BC Baum - San Francisco, CAJared Genser and Freedom Now save people's lives. For someone so young to have so much impact is astonishing. I marvel at Jared's boundless commitment and energy and at how he has channeled these into this extraordinarily effective organization.
David Baum - Ann Arbor, MichiganVery impressed with their accomplishments to date!
Jack Haller - Moncton, NB, CanadaI feel this organization has a tremendous amount to offer, especially a voice for those making politically and legally dificult decisions.
Kevin DeGood - Washington, DCAs a writer at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, where Jared Genser received his master’s degree, we’re always on the lookout for graduates of the school who are doing exactly what the school hopes of its alumni body: making a difference in the lives of others. I knew that Jared and the work he was doing with Freedom Now was exactly that kind of graduate. I set up an interview with him, wrote a profile, and have been following his work ever since. He’s a good person doing great work. What more can you ask for? Lory Hough Publications Office Kennedy School of Government Harvard University
Lory Hough - Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, MAFreedom Now is engaged in critically important work that must not go unrecognized.
Leila Akahloun, Desk Officer for Africa and Middle East, Ashoka: Innovators for the Public - Washington DCThe readers of Fast 50 will be inspired by Jared Genser’s Freedom Now. The organization’s talent, intellect, and passion are matched only by the worthiness of its endeavors. Freedom Now not only creates innovative ideas, it protects vital principles.
Brad Wolvin - Ann Arbor, MichiganFreedom Now is an inspirational blend of idealism, action, and success. Not only is the organization predicated on important principles, but Freedom Now’s formula for effectiveness will fascinate Fast Company readers. The extraordinary achievements of Jared Genser’s organization can instill a hope in each of us that a global notion of justice is within our grasp.
Maria Lougharn - Ann Arbor, MichiganThe news is watched, read and listened to by most of us but how many of us use our skills, intelligence,integrity passion & energy to turn that news around? Beginning with Jared Genser,Freedom Now has done this, as have the brave prisoners of conscience that they fight for. Freedom Now has grown fast and furious and it will continue to challenge ignorance and terror tactics. So many have already sat up and listened and as a result - James Mawdsley and the others they have worked on behalf of, are alive and free. Freedom Now is unique and essential in this world. For Freedom Now, the fight to free these people is not an option, it is a necessity. How can we argue that a non-profit, established to give people their voice and their lives is not worthy of the highest recognition?
Nichola Charalambou - London, UKIn a shrinking world, due to global communications, we are aware of the injustice on so many levels which individuals endure. With this awareness comes a sense of overwhelming helplessness. Freedom Now has shown us a way of turning this around, proving that we can take direct action and that its results can be concrete. This was demonstrated by Jared Genser in his original campaign, which resulted in the release of James Mawdsely from Burma. This organisation will grow and proliferate, as it gives back men and women of conscience the self-respect and belief that they can play an active part in securing justice against institutionalized and suppressive forces, wherever they are.
Sotirakis Charalambou - London, UKWhat impresses me most about Freedom Now is its combination of professional advocacy expertise with personal commitment, "touch," and passion. These two dimensions combined make the organization effective in achieving its goals, a real boost to those whose freedom is threatened, and a potential leader in the field.
Jim Simon - Washington, DCIs there a cause more worthy than saving those who have been unfairly condemned? People would not be alive & well & enjoying freedom of speech today were it not for this organisation & especially the determined, inspiring & tireless Jared Genser.
deborah Aharoni - England"Freedom Now" may be on shoe-string but they have accomplished more than many far-larger NGOs, with bigger staffs and profoundly larger budgets. Often overlooked by those reviewing the humanitarian impact of "Freedom Now" is tiny organization's hefty media relations skills; working with the press to put pressure on the perpetrators and rally public opinion to seek freedom for persecuted dissidents. "Fast Company" should recognize this truly "fast company" that has done so much with so little. They are empitome of type of organization honored in your annual TOP FIFTY list. Their only "profit" may be the freedom of others, a truly priceless commodity as we seek a better world.
Tom Lauria - Arlington, VirginiaFreedom Now not only brings justice to those who have been imprisoned for promoting democracy, it also brings a wonderful example of democracy in action to the world stage. It is by creating a caucus in support of their cause and lobbying to our chosen leaders that Freedom Now makes a difference, and by doing so, demonstrates the power of democratic rule to its foes.
Jennifer Cornfeld - Bethesda, MarylandVery inspirational
Ransy Boudouris - Toledo, OhioVery inspirational
Randy Boudouris - Toledo, OhioJared Genser is one of the most brilliant students I have taught in my human rights law courses. He is tremendously dedicated and clearly exemplifies the motto of my former employer, Amnesty International, in his work with Freedom NOW on individual human rights cases. That motto reads: "it is better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness." Freedom Now has helped to light candles since its inception.
Karima Bennoune - Newark, NJ, USAThe remarkable thing about Freedom Now is speed. Jared started this as a law student, and has quickly built up an organization that is effective in freeing prisoners of conscience -- while working full-time! If only all entrepreneurs were this effective. I also believe that the best part of this organization is that when they succeed, we all succeed. All people can rejoice when the succeed in freeing prisoners, and I look forward to doing so when Yang Jianli returns home. Humanity is for the better because Jared Genser followed through on his idea.
Naheed Nenshi - Calgary, Alberta, CanadaWow! How come we never heard of this group in the US Media!! They definitely deserve a high spot on the Fast Track 50, (and a Nobel Peace Prize!)
Adrian Birkett - Salt Lake City, Utah, USANov. 28, 2003 Fast Company Magazine Dear Judges: It is my pleasure to join many others in applauding Jared Genser and his company Freedom Now’s Nomination for Fast Company Fast 50. For the past one and a half years, I have seen their exceptional skills and determination to lead through difficulties in getting prisoners of conscience out of jail, especially in saving my brother Yang Jianli, a Prominent Chinese dissident who has been detained incommunicado in China since April 2002. After learning my brother’s unjustified detention and mistreatment in China, Mr. Genser immediately contacted out family and then started to work on his rescue. Mr. Genser worked tirelessly, often through weekends and over nights. With his powerful ideas, he led us to seek help from our government, the United Nations, the media and many other groups of people. In May, the United Nations ruled that my brother’s detention was arbitrary and that the Chinese government had violated international law. Later in June, the US congress and senate passed resolutions calling for my brother’s immediate release from China. Because of such powerful voices from the UN and the US, the Chinese government was compelled to allow the lawyer to meet my brother, after 15 months without any form of communication with him. At last, our family could know my brother was still alive and where he was held. Since then he has been allowed to read and his case has been progressing a great deal. Mr. Genser and Freedom Now’s determination and dedication in rescuing my brother have moved us deeply. Mr. Genser and Freedom Now’s righteous work not only helps my brother, but also brings hope to all the people striving for democracy and freedom, who are in dire straits. Our country (the US) is the role model of democracy and the land of freedom for the world. Mr. Genser and Freedom Now have exerted themselves tremendously in keeping this image strong. Their efforts merit recognition. I heartily hope and believe they will be the winner of Fast Company Fast 50, which they deserve. The rating for Jared Genser and Freedom Now is 10, the best. Sincerely yours, Jian Hua Yang O.D. 141 Monument Street Rockville, MD
Jian Hua Yang - Rockville, MarylandInteresting but not a winner
Fred Kinder - New York, New YorkVery spritual but no money in it. Sorry it is the truth.
George Cummings - Dallas, TexasThis fast-growing organization is impressive in the real results they produce in individual's lives. I have met numerous former political prisoners who have sacrificed years of their lives for values that we share as Americans, and all talk about the importance of international support and solidarity. No organization does it better.
Jeremy Woodrum - Washington, DCFreedom Now offers a cunning testament to the validity of the movement of the free man as it wages the war against the teathers of the bound.
esteban bowker - los angeles, ca
http://www.fastcompany.com/fast50_04/profile/?genser971
--------------------------
Source: "Fast Company Magazine".