Friday was a whirlwind. NGO
CSW 63 finally came to an end for us, but it went out with a bang! I attempted
to go to an event on women and unpaid care hosted by Mexico, but due to overcrowding,
I could not stay. However, I was able to attend a side event hosted by Sri
Lanka and Kenya titled Women Investing in
Peace. Both countries had representatives present that were able to speak
about women leaders that have dedicated their lives to building successful
foundations for sustainable communities. This event was very informative and inspirational
since we never get to hear or see the women leaders of the world fighting
(peacefully) for the rights for their people. I think people only think of
Winnie Mandela when they think of women global leaders.
Later Dr. Rieman and I
attend a documentary screening title Women,
Peace, and Power hosted by Ireland and Peace is Loud. This documentary
follows the stories of women activists, politicians, and citizens in Northern Ireland,
Afghanistan, and Liberia as they try to influence peace in their respective
countries. This film emphasized how men use violence, power, and coercion to
fuel war and their personal propaganda. While countries are worn-torn, children
dying, and women and being raped, male leaders are inflating their egos and
pockets from back-door deals. Women in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, and
Liberia (and all around the world) are taking a stand against their government
tearing their families and countries apart. In 2006, Liberia selected their
first woman president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Talk about moving mountains!!!
To end the night we had a
night out of pizza (my favorite) with Bennett alum Abaynesh Asrat of the Class
of 1974. She is truly a gem and was very excited to see her fellow Bennett
sisters again. During dinner, Africa, Dr. Riemann, students from NYU (I can’t
remember their names), Zybrea, and myself had a rich and informative conversation
on a plethora of topics. The one that sticks out most to me is the conversation
of feminism and why many young women, especially women of color do not label
themselves as feminists. Let’s just say that we all came to an understanding
(except for Beth) that it is not about the intent of feminism or feminist
organizations, it’s about the impact. Overall, I am eternally grateful for this
experience with WomenNC and NGO CSW 63. Although challenging at some points,
the trip to the UN was totally worth it! Oh, how I am going to miss NYC
pizza!!!
Until next time.
XOXO,
Aravia P