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by Theo Spanos Dunfey As we reflect on the past year, Global Citizens Circle (GCC) remains steadfast in our dedication to fostering a world where peace and understanding prevail. In a time where division often grabs headlines, we stand united in our mission to nurture dialogue, empathy, and collaboration across all boundaries. As we look forward to the New Year, we are filled with hope and determination. Our purpose is peace, and our path leads to endless possibilities. Join us in celebrating the triumphs of the past year and in continuing this important journey towards a brighter, more peaceful future for all. Your support for Global Citizens Circle beyond our 50th year will help: • deepen relational activities among emerging and established leaders and respond to their growing demands for our support • enable us to develop a global network of young peacebuilders and a digital tool for keeping them connected • ensure the continued development of Dialogue2Action videos with accompanying discussion guides • allow for more in-person programming to augment robust online programs • expand our partnerships and regional hubs As always, we appreciate your connection, communication and ongoing support throughout 2024 – and look forward to deepening relationships and creating new ones as we venture into the new year. Together, we can achieve greater peace and understanding in our global communities.  In September: An incredible event with the American Friends of the Parents Circle - Families Forum in Boston. This event exemplifies the kind of critical conversations Global Citizens Circle has been convening for over 50 years. Left to right: Colette Phillips, Priscilla Lee, Judith Thompson, Robi Damelin, Layla Alsheikh , Phoebe de Larrabeiti, Sean O'Kane, and Theo Spanos Dunfey, with Susmik Lama at the front. Theo Spanos Dunfey is president and executive director of Global Citizens Circle. She has over 30 years of global experience in non-profits, higher education, and international affairs. Dunfey is a graduate of the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy at Tufts University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy, concentrating on American diplomatic history, international communication, and international development. It was during her studies at the Fletcher School that she first began volunteering with Global Citizens Circle’s Boston programs. She also earned a bachelor’s in international relations and French at Brown University. With a primary focus on global issues, Dunfey taught international development at the University of New England, led student groups on global citizenship service-learning trips abroad, directed the World Affairs Council of Maine, and produced numerous global editorial conferences for The WorldPaper before taking the helm at Global Citizens Circle. Together, we can achieve greater peace and understanding in our global communities.
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 Suraj Budathoki, Founder, Peace Initiative Bhutan; Theo Dunfey, Executive Director, Global Citizens Circle; Ahmad Bakdad, Peace & Disarmament Assistant Coordinator, International Peace Bureau By Ahmad Bakdad My recent experience at Constellating Peace in late October in Sierra Leone, organized by Fambul Tok and Catalyst for Peace and made possible through the invitation and funding from Global Citizen Circle (GCC), has been nothing short of transformative. It opened my eyes to the profound power of peace building and reconciliation on the African continent. Through GCC’s support, I discovered a vibrant new world grounded in values of peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation, shaping my understanding of how global peace initiatives can be both deeply rooted in cultural heritage and expansive in their outreach. I met people from across the globe, engaged in discussions that are both challenging and informative. A significant part of my journey was shaped by engaging extensively with youth leaders during the visits. Their passion for peace and development was unmistakable, as was their commitment to uplifting their communities. This experience reinforced my belief in the pivotal role youth play in peace building, yet it also revealed new, innovative ways for youth to drive change.  Ahmad Bakdad with members of village youth council I was particularly moved by my discussion with young leaders and their coordinator in Makeni about work and leisure. One youth’s statement — "We can have fun later; now we have work to do!" — struck me deeply, exemplifying their unwavering dedication to transforming their own lives and those around them.  Mariama EF Jarju, Finance Officer Women in Liberation and Leadership with Theo Dunfey Following this experience, I am taking proactive steps to strengthen and activate my network within the African region, recognizing the immense potential for collaboration and shared impact.  Suraj Budathoki, Ahmad Bakdad, France Bognon, Interim CEO, International Civil Society Action Network; Jesica Rhone, Director of International Programs, McConnell Foundation The conference introduced me to a diverse array of organizations and inspiring individuals from across Africa and beyond, each committed to advancing peace, development, and social change. These connections have not only expanded my professional network but have also deepened my understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the African context. I am also planning to reactivate and empower the African network in my current organization and integrate those new connections within. My interest in Africa has grown profoundly, and I am excited to build upon these new connections.  Theo Dunfey and Ahmad Bakdad For GCC, I see immense value in continuing — and perhaps in the future, organizing —such events for young peace builders and existing members. These gatherings can greatly expand GCC’s influence and promote its vision of cultural diversity and support for peace builders worldwide. I am grateful to GCC for this opportunity and look forward to furthering our shared mission of global peace. Thank you, GCC — I am always open to collaborating in this inspiring journey.  Ahmad Bakdad is a legal professional from Syria who advocates for the rights of young individuals and children, actively supporting initiatives for social justice, human rights, and the advancement of peace and equality. Over the last seven years, he has dedicated himself to collaborating with diverse civil society organizations, NGOs, INGOs, and UN agencies, including SOS Children's Villages, UNICEF, the Syrian Bar Association, and the United Nations Development Programme. His contributions have impacted humanitarian endeavors across Syria and the Middle East. Bakdad also holds active memberships in several international associations focused on youth, community development, and peace building. During his fellowship, Bakdad will join an international organization in Europe, where he will contribute to their global work on conflict resolution and peacebuilding. His time at the organization will be dedicated to strengthening his skills and enhancing his knowledge in the areas of peace building and conflict resolution. He aims to expand his network by engaging with international colleagues and learning from their experiences. Bakdad plans to leverage this experience and newfound knowledge to empower communities in Syria and internationally. He intends to transfer his expertise and use it to drive social change and social cohesion initiatives for peace and social integration. Read more about him in this GCC Voices Q&A. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Through GCC’s support, I discovered a vibrant new world grounded in values of peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation, shaping my understanding of how global peace initiatives can be both deeply rooted in cultural heritage and expansive in their outreach.  By Dr. Jim Freiburger Two rivers converse Blending fresh, brackish waters Innovate new stream Looking out my window, I witness the energetic, freshwater Exeter River merging with the Tidal Basin River Swampscott. Together they meld into a new passageway to the nearby ocean. Fledgling fish, hatched upriver in the freshwater, swim downstream through the now blended waters, and acclimate as adults in a new ocean setting. The combined rivers created an environment for a new generation of fish to cope with the future. The blended rivers pathway is analogous to the role Global Citizens (GCC) has chosen to create an intergenerational approach to world issues. GCC provides a space in which a younger generation of leaders can converse and share their ideas and enthusiasm with an older generation of peacemakers and leaders. In a recent GCC Circle, an Israeli young man, Yigal Elhanan, and a Palestinian young man, Arab Aramin, shared their stories. Elhanan’s five-year-old sister was killed by a Palestinian bomber. Aramin’s 10-year-old sister was shot by an Israeli soldier. They recreated the role of their parents, founders of the Parent’s Circle for Reconciliation and Peace, had in helping them move through hatred and trauma to become activists for reconciliation and peace. Similarly, intergenerational leaders from Ukraine, Nepal, Syria, Sierra Leone, Afghanistan, India, and America have presented their stories in GCC circles. Several intergenerational leaders are also represented on the GCC advisory council and board. The GCC Emerging Leader program is a model for intergenerational cooperation to develop reconciliation and peace.  Dr. Jim Freiburger is a retired professor of organizational leadership and corporate social responsibility to graduate students from around the world. He currently enjoys applying the Haiku expression and the lens of his camera to capture scenes in nature. Freiburger has been actively associated with Global Citizens Circle during its 50-year existence. In 2022, he authored a memoir, “An Iowa Farm Boy’s Odyssey: Priest, Parent, Professor.“ Contact him at [email protected] Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. GCC provides a space in which a younger generation of leaders can converse and share their ideas and enthusiasm with an older generation of peacemakers and leaders.  By Stephen Reno In the wake of the November election, too often have I heard the call “to circle the wagons.” It’s a phrase deep in our American folklore and has come to represent a measure to be safe and secure. But the lessons of these past few weeks are that we need to do just the opposite; rather we need to engage in respectful conversation across difference but based in our common love for our country. Global Citizens Circle, now in its 50th year, has been doing just that, and so offers us all a model for how to do it and what it can lead to. And what it also offers — so desperately needed these days — is intergenerational conversation. As Pope Frances noted, “The elderly with their history are the roots and the young are the flowers and fruits.” Together we grow, recognizing difference, but also know our shared roots. Our country and our world so urgently need this approach. I am grateful for Global Citizens Circle and urge us all to ensure that its mission is an active verb. We hope you’ll register for our next Circle on Monday, December 2, from noon to 1pm. Historian and author Timothy Ryback, whose books and articles offer lessons for democracy, joins us for an important post-election circle event as we join in conversation to consider how to constructively move forward given the polarization of American citizenry. What lesson can we learn from others who’ve navigated similar polarization and found ways to work together for common good? You may register here. Stephen Reno is a retired professor of comparative religion, university administrator, and most recently, the former executive director of Leadership New Hampshire, a 30-year-old organization whose mission is “Building a community of informed and engaged leaders.” He lives in Hampton, New Hampshire, and serves on the advisory board of Global Citizens Circle. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. We need to engage in respectful conversation across difference but based in our common love for our country. Global Citizen’s Circle’s Role in Pushing Back on the Pushback on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion11/13/2024  By James McKim, PMP, ITIL My experience helping a wide range of organizations improve their performance has resulted in a deep understanding of the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In contemporary discourse, DEI has emerged as critical focal points across various sectors, from corporate boardrooms to educational institutions and community settings. These initiatives aim to dismantle systemic barriers, promote equal opportunities, and foster environments where every individual feels valued and respected regardless of their background and can perform at their best. However, the journey towards living into DEI is often met with resistance, skepticism, and pushback from individuals or groups reluctant to embrace change. Being introduced to the Global Citizens Circle by current Board Chair Sean O’Kane, I saw an opportunity to join an organization that has had and has the great potential to have an even greater impact on how the pushback against DEI can be eliminated for the betterment of both organizations and society. So, just what is this pushback? The Pushback Against DEI Pushback against DEI may stem from a multitude of factors including fear of change, ideological differences, misconceptions about DEI, discomfort with confronting privilege and biases, or concerns about perceived threats to existing power structures. We can view the pushback as existing at 3 levels: interpersonal, group/systemic, and structural as shown in the figure.  At the interpersonal level, based on research by Gartner, pushback generally takes 3 forms in the context of culture – how we interact with each other in society writ large.  Image credit; Gartner https://www.gartner.com/en/articles/how-to-navigate-pushback-to-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-efforts
At the Group/Systemic (organizational/institutional) level, based on research by Forbes pushback generally takes the form of:
At the Structural level, based on research by Professor Tricia Rose of Brown, pushback generally takes the form of laws or best practices such as gender pay inequities or redlining that boost a particular industry at the expense of underrepresented individuals. Education impacts health, health impacts education. Both impact the ability for people to get good jobs to gain income to be able to pay for education, and health… see the vicious cycle?  Image credit: Axios https://www.axios.com/2024/04/02/dei-backlash-diversity The reality is that DEI is being discussed more than ever. As is reported in the Axios article “There are still companies committed to hiring people from diverse backgrounds, figuring out how to foster inclusive workplaces and treating people fairly. But they're less likely to use those initials.” Global Citizens Circle’s Role Global Citizens Circle (GCC) plays a significant role in countering the backlash against DEI efforts by fostering open dialogue and understanding among diverse groups. Since 1974, GCC has consistently brought together diverse groups of people, from world leaders to local activists, to engage in meaningful conversations on important social and global issues: including race relations in the US, Northern Ireland's troubles, South Africa's struggles, and women's rights. Want examples?
These discussions aim to inspire change by highlighting the importance of DEI in creating equitable opportunities and environments for all individuals, regardless of their background by encouraging intergenerational dialogue and empowering youth voices. This is how GCC helps sustain the momentum for DEI initiatives amidst growing opposition and helps create a world where we all can not only survive but thrive. I am proud to join GCC at this critical time in our world. Won’t you join us? James McKim is the managing partner of Organizational Ignition, a management consulting practice. He is a sought-after organizational performance speaker, coach, change manager, and author of the bestselling book "The Diversity Factor: Igniting Superior Organizational Performance." Over his 35+ year career, he has helped small and large organizations, for-profit and nonprofit, ignite efficiency and growth through the aligning of people, process, and technology. Mr. McKim is known internationally for his current focus on organizational and individual performance through diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). He is recognized by industry watchers such as Atd, Brandon Hall, Bersin Associates, Axelos, and PMI for his dedication to creating win-win situations between organizations and their employees. In addition to founding two companies, he has held senior leadership roles at or worked with organizations such as Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Fidelity, Dartmouth Hitchcock, and the Massachusetts Partnership for Diversity in Education in defining and executing strategic plans with an eye toward organizational performance. As the Chair of the Episcopal Church’s National Executive Council Committee Anti-Racism & Reconciliation, Mr. McKim was the principal writer of the church's guidelines on anti-racism and reconciliation. As President of the Manchester Branch of the NAACP, he works regularly with governments and businesses to eliminate discrimination. He is a frequent conference presenter, a guest on radio and television shows, serves as Chair of the Finance Committee of the NH PBS Board of Directors, serves on the board of Global Citizen Circle, and delights in being the vocalist for the jazz band The Episcocats. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. GCC helps sustain the momentum for DEI initiatives amidst growing opposition and helps create a world where we all cannot only survive but thrive. I am proud to join GCC at this critical time in our world. Won’t you join us?  By Jerry Dunfey and Nadine Hack Editor's Note: Jerry Dunfey is the 1974 founding president of Global Citizens Circle (GCC).. Nadine Hack has been actively involved with GCC for 40 of its 50 years. They are fervent citizen activists. We asked them to share their views on the importance of voting. There is a Sweet Honey in the Rock song that we love. Its lyrics are: We who believe in freedom cannot rest We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes Until the killing of black men, black mothers' sons Is as important as the killing of white men, white mothers' sons That which touches me most is that I had a chance to work with people Passing on to others that which was passed on to me To me young people come first, they have the courage where we fail And if I can but shed some light as they carry us through the gale The older I get the better I know that the secret of my going on Is when the reins are in the hands of the young, who dare to run against the storm.  So many people dedicated their lives to the struggle for all Americans to have the right to vote. We were privileged to know many of them like Congressman John Lewis to whom in 2003 prior GCC board chairs Eleanor Dunfey and Tito Jackson presented the Global Citizens award. We love his anthem, ‘Make good trouble!’ It’s a struggle that continues today with too many people disenfranchised from the right to vote in the US and throughout the world. Lewis and his colleagues like Coretta Scott King who GCC honored with the same award at a 1999 Circle joined by GCC Honorary Chairs Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Ambassador Andrew Young. Lewis worked for the 1963 Voting Rights Act struck down in 2013 and being championed by a new act in Lewis’ name. Long-time GCC friend John Hume, fighter for the rights of all in Northern Ireland was there too. Hume led a 1978 Circle.   We were honored to present the Global Citizens Award to Nelson Mandela shortly after he was released from prison in 1990. Over the decades from the 1970s, GCC hosted many Circles anti-apartheid freedom fighters including Walter and Albertina Sisulu, Oliver and Adelaide Tambo, Desmond and Leah Tutu and other lesser-known champions of a free and just South Africa so every person regardless of their race or political view would have the opportunity to vote. In that country, as in the US, Northern Ireland and other places around the world people gave their lives for this right, murdered because of their activism. We must honor them and keep their legacies alive by ensuring that everyone who wants to vote can vote.  With so many having sacrificed so much, we feel a sacred obligation to ‘make good trouble’ and ensure that people take seriously their right to vote. This is why we were and are active in social justice movements throughout the world and why we campaign during every US election. Jerry began in 1952 and 1956 with ‘Madly for Adlai." Nadine began a decade later in the 1964 election. The two of us have campaigned in every election since, including Barack Obama in 2008 and now Kamala Harris in 2024. Regardless of your personal political perspectives, we encourage you to vote as it’s the price of democracy. We hope you vote for the person you believe will best protect democracy, a choice that’s clear to us; but whatever your persuasion, do not give up this hallowed responsibility to your nation.  From 1974 until the present, Global Citizens Circle has highlighted the voices of democracy activists from China, Afghanistan, Syria and countries throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas. Coretta and Dr Martin Luther King’s granddaughter Yolanda Renee King co-led a 2019 Circle "In the Footsteps of Giants: Grounding and Growing the Dream." In 2020 then 22-year-old Jahnavi Rao founder New Voters and then 96-year-old Robert Jay Lifton National Book Award winner, life-long advocate of peaceful, socially just and an economically sustainable world co-led a Circle "Defending Democracy." We hope that our democracy comes through with flying colors in Tuesday’s election! Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Regardless of your personal political perspectives, we encourage you to vote as it’s the price of democracy. We hope you vote for the person you believe will best protect democracy, a choice that’s clear to us; but whatever your persuasion, do not give up this hallowed responsibility to your nation.  By José Tulio Gálvez Contreras In a world marked by uncertainty and division, effective leadership is crucial. The Global Citizen Circle (GCC) shines as a beacon of hope, uniting leaders to inspire tomorrow’s change-makers. My journey with GCC began during the pandemic, a challenging time when many felt lost. As a Latino immigrant from Honduras, GCC became a vital source of inspiration and connection. I arrived in the United States in 2007 on a scholarship, driven by the dream of one day giving back to and transforming my home country. In those early years, my aspirations burned brightly. I envisioned creating positive change and uplifting my community. However, as time went on, that fire began to fade. The weight of isolation and uncertainty took its toll. While my dreams remained alive, they lacked the passion I once felt. It was during the pandemic, grappling with these feelings of disconnection, that I discovered GCC. GCC emerged as a platform where diverse voices could unite, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration—essential elements for effective leadership. The organization created circles of conversation, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to share their experiences and aspirations. This sense of community was crucial during such chaotic times, especially as we confronted not only the pandemic but also the urgent call to support the Black Lives Matter movement and stand against oppression. One of the key lessons from my involvement with GCC is the realization that I am not alone in my struggles. Many others share the desire to enact change in their communities. This understanding reignited my sense of purpose and revealed that our diverse backgrounds enhance the dialogue about our collective future. The stories and insights shared within GCC circles underscored the strength found in unity and the power of collective action. What sets GCC apart is its commitment to empowering individuals as agents of change. By bringing together leaders from different fields, GCC encourages discussions on pressing issues such as social justice and environmental sustainability. These conversations serve as catalysts for action, prompting participants to reflect on their roles in their communities and the wider world. Through GCC, I learned that effective leadership isn’t merely about wielding power; it’s about listening, understanding, and collaborating toward shared goals. Engaging with fellow members provided invaluable support, motivating me to take an active role in my community. Together, we brainstorm ideas and hold each other accountable for change, reinforcing that real transformation often begins at the grassroots level. In conclusion, the Global Citizen Circle illustrates the transformative power of community and dialogue in fostering leadership. During a fragmented time, GCC offered hope and connection, profoundly shaping my journey as a Latino immigrant. It reignited my passion for change and strengthened my commitment to helping Honduras. As we move forward, we must recognize our potential to contribute to a more equitable world. Through organizations like GCC, we can cultivate future leaders, united by a shared vision for positive change. José Tulio Gálvez Contreras is the Director of Affordable Solar at Solar One, a position he has held since 2019. He manages solar projects and leads research initiatives to enhance solar access for multifamily affordable housing. With over a decade of experience in renewable energy, sustainability, and community development, José is committed to addressing social and environmental injustices. He is currently completing his doctoral studies in Public and Urban Policy at The New School, focusing on environmental justice and energy democracy. José holds master's degrees in Public and Urban Policy and Environmental Law and Policy. In his free time, he enjoys nature, meditation, martial arts, dancing, exploring new cuisines, and meeting new people. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. What sets GCC apart is its commitment to empowering individuals as agents of change. By bringing together leaders from different fields, GCC encourages discussions on pressing issues such as social justice and environmental sustainability. These conversations serve as catalysts for action, prompting participants to reflect on their roles in their communities and the wider world.
Battles over Confederate flags and monuments persist and suggest that the issues fought over in the American Civil War and Civil Rights Movement are unresolved. How we confront symbols of statues, flags and anthems determine the extent of domestic tranquility we can achieve as a nation. How can public commemoration shape a collective narrative that builds, rather than strains the ties that bind us together?
In Feb. 2021, Global Citizens Circle (GCC) addressed this question in a stirring circle. Discussion leaders included American politician, lawyer and author Mitch Landrieu, whose book, “In the Shadow of Statues: A White Southerner Confronts History,” speaks to his personal journey confronting the issue of race and institutional racism that still plagues America. Circle discussion leaders also included Imari Paris Jefferies, Ph.D., Tracyann Williams, and Dr. Craig Stutman. 
This important circle discussion is now part of GCC’s engaging Dialogue2Action series. The overview video can be viewed below. Review the discussion guide here. There’s never been a better time to participate in one of GCC’s Dialogue2Action discussions with your friends, colleagues, and community. There is a difference between remembrance of history and reverence of it.  By R. Rahini Like many other Afghans, I experienced a period of extreme terror and bewilderment in August 2021 when the Taliban seized power in the nation. I realized we had to make a choice for our future when my family and I saw the world crumble around us for a few days. Despite having very little money to make the trip, my wife and I decided to leave Afghanistan. In the hopes of finding security and stability, we made the decision to go to Pakistan, but this would not be a simple journey. We met many difficulties on our journey, particularly at the numerous checkpoints we went through along the way. Each time, we were questioned and treated harshly when it was discovered that we were Hazaras. Prejudice permeated their responses, and we were turned away at multiple checkpoints. People from the Hazara community were not allowed to cross the border freely by the government. Although this was very discouraging, we persisted until we were eventually able to enter Pakistan. After arriving in Pakistan, we encountered new challenges. I quickly discovered that it was very hard to obtain a job there, which also made it hard to pay for even the most basic of bills due to our tight budget. One of the most difficult periods of our lives was the month we spent in Pakistan. My present employer made me a job offer just when it seemed like we were out of options. In the middle of the mayhem, it felt like a lifeline. After talking about the possibility with my spouse, we concluded that it would not be feasible to remain in Pakistan without any assistance or a certain future. Despite the risks, it seemed that returning to Afghanistan was the only option. We made the tough decision to return, and I began working at my new job. When I got back, though, I noticed something that made my heart hurt. Like so many other women and girls in Afghanistan, my wife and sister had given up on life. Due to the new regime's constraints, they were forced to stay in our home and were unable to continue their studies. They felt apprehensive about their future, dissatisfied, and frustrated. When I saw this, I realized I had to do something. The ladies in my life couldn't continue to live their dreams in silence. Upon starting my search, I discovered that women might qualify for a number of scholarships provided they met the English language proficiency criteria. My wife and sister were not able to access an accredited educational system, so I took it upon myself to teach them English. We worked nonstop for six months. I taught them English every day, and over time, they improved gradually. My sister and wife were eventually prepared to go through the required interviews and exams to get the scholarships they had been pursuing. They were admitted after putting in months of arduous effort and devotion. It was a triumphant moment for me as well, as I knew that I had assisted them in escaping the constraints placed upon them. However, this was insufficient. I came to see how many other Afghani women and girls were facing the same challenges. Despite having hopes, potential, and goals, they were not allowed to pursue an education. I made the decision for girls because I was motivated by my wife and sister's achievements. I set out to assist them in learning English so they might break free from the limitations holding them back and become eligible for scholarships. I'm happy to report that about 15 girls currently participate English language program. Like my wife and sister, they are putting in a lot of work, and I have no doubt that they will accomplish great things as well. They're going to apply for scholarships, and maybe soon, they'll be able to continue their study and establish themselves outside of Afghanistan. When I look back, my trip from Pakistan to Afghanistan was a homecoming to both my native country and my purpose in life. I came to see that I could still have an impact despite everything. My impulse to provide the same help to other women and girls who had been denied the chance to pursue their education came from seeing my wife and sister find hope once more. This is not the end of my journey. Observing the girls who visit the center every day, I can see their determination. Their perseverance and bravery in facing challenges serve as a reminder of the strength and fortitude of Afghan women. I'm filled with pride and hope as they get ready for their futures. Despite the difficult times Afghanistan is facing, I will do everything in my power to maintain the flickering flame of empowerment and education. R. Rahimi was born in 1991 in Bamyan, Afghanistan. After finishing school, he went to Kabul Polytechnic University to study Information Technology and graduated in 2017. Post-graduation, he worked as a research assistant with Kelly Franklin, PhD candidate in the Systems Ecology Program at the University of Montana for about six months. Rahimi went on to work at MEDAIR as a quality assurance assistant from 2018-2021, before joining an international humanitarian organization as an IT operations assistant. Throughout his career, he has gained experience in research, quality control, and IT operations, especially in humanitarian work.
Despite the difficult times Afghanistan is facing, I will do everything in my power to maintain the flickering flame of empowerment and education. In September 2023, Global Citizens Circle partnered with The Parents Circle-Families Forum and Narrative 4 – these three organizations share a similar and powerful mission to foster empathy through dialogue – to present a virtual Circle, Reclaiming Our Humanity: Conversations for Peace. Their shared objective formed the bedrock of the event, which aimed to shed light on the 75-year struggle between Palestinians and Israelis, a conflict often regarded as one of the world's most intractable. The event featured Colum McCann, distinguished author of the renowned work “Apeirogon” and president of Narrative 4, in a thought-provoking exchange with bereaved family members from The Parent Circle-Families Forum, Arab Aramin and Yigal Elhanan. This transformative conversation resonated deeply with its audience. Highlights of this Circle can be viewed below, and the full Circle may be viewed here. So much has happened since our 2023 Circle – and now, more than ever, we need respectful dialogue to foster empathy and find our way toward reconciliation and peace.
GCC will co-host Holding Onto Humanity with the Ford Hall Forum, in partnership with the Parents Circle-Family Forum, a joint Israeli-Palestinian organization made up of more than 750 bereaved families on September 23, from 6-7 pm. Parents Circle-Families Forum have chosen a path of reconciliation. Often raw and emotional, out of these interactions comes change. Not the kind of change that makes headlines, but a more profound shift in perspective. Join us for an evening of conversation with bereaved Israeli mother Robi Damelin and bereaved Palestinian mother Laila Alsheikh, who both lost their sons to the conflict. They will tell their personal stories of loss and explain their choice to engage in dialogue and reconciliation. The evening’s moderator is Charles M. Sennott,founder and editor of The GroundTruth Project and an award-winning correspondent, author, and editor with 30 years of experience in international, national, and local journalism. Previously, Sennott worked for many years as a reporter at the Boston Globe, where he became Bureau Chief for the Middle East and Europe and a leader of the paper's international coverage. We invite you to join us at Suffolk University’s Modern Theatre, 525 Washington Street in Boston on September 23. Registration information may be found here. This program will be livestreamed by the Ford Hall Forum, and you must sign up here to receive the livestream link. |
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