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At a Boston Circle in May 2019, Jada Hebra led a panel discussion, “Building Movements for Change: Stories of Challenge and Success,” featuring activists Dolores Huerta, Lauren Hogg, and Ramla Sahid. Conversation that evening spoke to societal challenges, division and how each of us can make a difference to create, foster, and impact change.
Hebra, a senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer at Southern New Hampshire University, is adept in her navigation of complex discussion and scenarios, drawing upon the tools of her work and experience to find the humanity in everyone. Yet, in 2016, she too stumbled in the political crevasse that so many found themselves in – but for Hebra, this time it became deeply personal. In her compelling 2023 TEDx Talk, Hebra shares how a work conversation allowed her to open her eyes and find her way forward across a seemingly insurmountable divide – and how we can as well. And in the spirit of Global Citizens Circle, why it matters that we do. If you care about the people in your life who hold a different world view, if you care about this country, then I invite you to the climb – to lay down a ladder and make your way across the crevasse, to dare to try to reach that seemingly unreachable summit ... to have hope. Trust me when I tell you, we can save this relationship. We are so much better together.
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.
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 By Theo Spanos Dunfey We live in turbulent times. Extreme polarization, animosity across divides, and violence erupting in places we’ve grown too accustomed to seeing it and in places we never expected it. Exacerbated by a 24/7 media landscape that proves difficult to pull away from, we find ourselves irritated, agitated and feeling small and alone in the face of the enormity of the problems we face in these turbulent times. Surely there must be an escape! Rather than an escape, however, I would posit that what we need is to do something, as people at the recent Democratic National Convention have reminded us. Recalling their mothers’ admonitions to do something instead of complaining, do something instead of sitting on the couch waiting for someone else to fix things, and do something even if it’s hard, the speakers reminded me of one of the origin stories of Global Citizens Circle. As I wrote in my previous blog post, I was fortunate to become part of the Dunfey family, the Circle founders. While I never met Catherine Dunfey, the family matriarch, I’ve heard the stories of the example she set for her large and sometimes unwieldy group of a dozen offspring. Her youngest daughter, Eleanor Dunfey-Freiburger, wrote in her memoir “Counter Culture: Clams, Convents and a Circle of Global Citizens” – My mother’s example…showed us what “social justice” looks like. She would never have heard that term in those days. She lived it though…my mother walked the talk of social justice in her everyday life. Catherine’s example had a profound and lasting impact on her family, and it is reflected in the story of Global Citizens Circle. Fifty years ago, it was another turbulent time. In the wake of national trauma over the assassinations of JFK, RFK and MLK, the end of the Vietnam War, the resignation of a disgraced president, and the upheaval in Boston over school desegregation and bussing, the pervasive feelings of helplessness and hopelessness spurred the Dunfey family to “do something!” As hoteliers, the family decided to use their experience in the hospitality industry to take action and bring people of different backgrounds, races and beliefs together, usually over a meal, to talk with one another in an open and respectful manner about the hard issues that everyone was grappling with in the early 1970s. A firm belief that diverse, civil conversations on critical issues of the day would help begin to break down barriers when coupled with a friendly, warm and welcoming environment – and that is how the Circle became the family’s act of doing something. And beyond opening up their hotels to welcome people into the conversation, they set an example of working behind the scenes for peace in Northern Ireland, South Africa and the Middle East among other conflict areas in the world. As Monica McWilliams, the only woman signatory to Northern Ireland’s Good Friday Agreement, said to us, “They (the Dunfey family) were influencers, but influencers without ego, influencers who worked under the radar, influencers who were humble people…” In this, the 50th anniversary year of Global Citizens Circle, I value and hold dear the legacy that the organization has of bringing people together across differences, welcoming everyone to the conversation, and honoring everyone’s lived experience as we discuss the way towards lasting peace and justice. When we truly listen with open minds, and we learn to hold differing opinions with respect for the humanity of those who express them, I believe we can all lead the way to solving even the most intractable problems we face. Just do something! 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. When we truly listen with open minds, and we learn to hold differing opinions with respect for the humanity of those who express them, I believe we can all lead the way to solving even the most intractable problems we face. 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.
 By Dr. Shanita M. Williams Growing up, just about every child had “circle time” during the school day. It was a point in the day where we’d move from our individual plainly colored desks to the center of the room, often sitting on a vibrantly colored rug that gave you a jolt of energy the moment you stepped onto it. We’d all scramble to that carpet for circle time, trying to find the perfect spot within the circle. I remember looking around to make sure no one was left outside of the circle and would encourage other kids to scoot over to make room if someone did. As I reflect on the many faces in the circle, I cannot help to feel blessed to have grown up with people from all walks of life in race, gender, socio-economic status and ability. I didn’t realize it at the time, but circle time would become one of my earliest memories on the value of diversity and the importance of inclusion. As a kid, the time in the circle was incredibly exciting…it was a moment of the day where we were closest to the teacher (literally sitting just a few inches away from their feet). It was an opportunity to put our pens down (or crayons for that matter) and engage in learning in a completely different way. No books, no overhead projector (I am dating myself), no worksheets, no flashcards, just me, myself and I. It was a signal that I was enough and that I had everything I needed for the circle. Looking back, it was really empowering. Circle time was also inspiring because it was not only an opportunity to listen to each other, but it was also an opportunity to see each other in a completely different way. The structure of the circle made the time special. We were right beside one another – not across the table from one another – and something about that felt good. We weren’t required to cite literature or recite the details of something; it was our opportunity to listen to each other, to see one another, share our perspective, and be inspired by one another. It was almost as if the words shared during “circle time” resonated more deeply than any other point in the day, leaving me feeling more knowledgeable, more connected to my peers, and seen as an individual. Now that you know how much I valued circle time as a kid, I am sure it’s no surprise to you that I was drawn to Global Citizens Circle (GCC). Through the use of global circles, Global Citizens Circle discussion leaders join in a moderated interactive conversation with participants from around the world, having courageous constructive conversations about some of the world’s most pressing topics. The experience and outcomes are similar to those I felt in a circle as a kid: people from all walks of life sharing stories, inspiring hope, deepening understanding, and motivating change.  In June 2022, I had the honor of moderating a GCC circle, “In the Footsteps of Giants: Grounding and Growing the Dream.” It was an inspiring discussion centered around intergenerational dialogue with Yolanda King, then 14-year-old activist and sole grandchild of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King as well as Khandace Wilkerson, a 2022 graduate of the Boston Latin Academy, who is involved in many community-based organizations in Boston. Together, they represent a generation of new voices that were born out of dreams of those who have come before them. It was a real treat for me to sit alongside the two of these young women and hear their thoughts on topics that the youth were most concerned about. We talked about voting rights, gun violence, activism, and tips for youth who want to make a difference. One of our discussion topics was around voting. As we enter the 2024 presidential election the youth vote (ages 18-34) has the potential to influence on the outcome in many states. As Yolanda King noted, “We need to make sure we (youth) are voting so that we elect politicians who will listen to the youth.” Her point was well taken. Many people have traditionally felt that our youth are “to be seen and not heard.” Khandace Wilkerson said, “They (youth) have power in their voice even, if they don’t use it; their thoughts matter, their ideas matter and they can change the world if they want to.” I have always believed in our youth, but after listening to these young women, it reinforced that if we only see them and not hear them, we are missing out on an incredible opportunity to positively shape the future of our country and, inevitably, the world. I remember hearing that one voice can cause an avalanche. These two young women, alongside the Global Citizens Circle, have started a volcanic eruption. What an honor it was to be a part of this circle and watch them pave their own way as they follow in the footsteps of giants. As I go back to my childhood circle time on the vibrantly colored carpet, I am reminded that it was not the adults in the room that inspired me most, it was my peers…the youth that did so. I am inspired by our youth: Khandance Wilkerson and Yolanda King will lead the next generation of leaders and become the giants so many will follow. That’s the power of a circle. Dr. Shanita Williams has focused on the employee experience for the last 15 years. She currently serves as the vice president of people experience and inclusion within Human Resources at Southern New Hampshire University. In her role, she collaborates with leaders and employees across the university to ensure that diversity and inclusion are embedded in all of our talent strategies, initiatives and programs that help recruit, retain and empower world class talent to deliver on the mission. Her areas of focus include employee engagement surveys, recognition and appreciation, employee networks, university-wide onboarding, bias response programs, coaching and helping people build a feedback mentality. Williams earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, where her research centered on the lived experiences of African-American working mothers as students. Williams is the author of "The Feedback Mentality: The key to unlocking and unleashing your full potential" and a two-times TEDx speaker. Through the use of global circles, Global Citizens Circle discussion leaders join in a moderated interactive conversation with participants from around the world, having courageous constructive conversations about some of the world’s most pressing topics. - Dr. Shanita Williams 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.
 By Phoebe de Larrabeiti I. “The power is in your person.” – Dolores Huerta, 2019 GCC discussion leader 1982, Oxfordshire, England It’s the evening. I lean up against my mum’s legs in our kitchen. I should probably be in bed but something is happening. I can feel it. The kitchen is full of people packing food, talking feverishly; nukes, Reagan, Thatcher. I don’t understand everything but I know I can help. Loading food into our battered old Lada (a Russian car bought to piss off our neighbors). These friends, this community of outliers and intellectuals are making meals for the Women of Greenham Common. This was a women’s only peace camp, protesting NATO's decision to site U.S. cruise missiles (guided nuclear missiles) in the U.K. These courageous women had formed a human barricade at the local military airfield base. Often brutally evicted, sometimes imprisoned, they would only return more defiant. My mum and her friends were keeping them fed. I understood then that the U.S. was a powerful nation. Housing their nuclear weapons on U.K. soil crossed a line my community chose to resist. Their resistance seeped under my skin and left its mark. II. “Speak truth to power.” – Kerry Kennedy, 2023 GCC discussion leader March 2003, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport “What do y’all think about the war?” exclaimed the small woman with the big hair guiding us on to the airport shuttle bus. “Where am I?” I thought, already disconcerted from the long haul flight and being held by immigration officers over an anomaly with my student visa. In the past month my world had turned upside down; my mum died suddenly and a trans-Atlantic move destined for New England had brought us instead to Texas. What I could never have anticipated was that our arrival date would coincide exactly with the invasion of Iraq by U.S. and U.K. forces. The Marriott hotel, our first ‘home,' was filled with reserve troops. Images of Blair, Bush and Saddam Hussein played endlessly on the barroom tv. I thought only of the mass mobilization of those against the invasion, the largest protest ever on U.K. soil in London just one month before. In every sense, I felt a million miles from home. There’s nothing like volunteering at a children’s hospital to ground you in a place, however lost you feel. Within a month I was working at the Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in downtown Dallas, making friends, navigating cultural differences as best I could. Engaging my colleagues in conversations about politics, particularly the invasion of Iraq, elicited a reaction I had never witnessed before. The war had started now, and it was unpatriotic to question the motives of those in power. I was letting down the troops. Wasn’t it the opposite, I would counter. Doesn’t democracy demand that we hold those in power accountable? Now I felt the fire in my blood. III. “‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that.’ Words my grandfather lived by.” – Yolanda Renee King, 2022 GCC discussion leader June 26, 2024. USCIS Offices, Bedford, NH If you had to complete the extensive N-400 application for naturalization you would be asked: Were you EVER a member of, or did you EVER serve in, help, or otherwise participate in, any of the following groups: an insurgent organization (a group that uses weapons and fights against a government)? For the American Democracy section of the civics test you will learn that the “rule of law” states no one is above the law; that our leaders must obey the law. Unless, of course. they start to re-write them. We were living in extraordinary times, the very fabric of what defined a nation and nationality was being undone. Perhaps it was seeing my bright, brilliant, resilient daughter cast her first vote last November that got me thinking. Was it time to become a U.S. citizen? Or maybe something in the air that smelled unsettlingly like authoritarianism propelled me to acknowledge we might not have much time. More than anything it was people, the people I have met here in this beautiful country, a country like most of us – steeped in contradictions. When I cast my vote in November, I might be helping to make history. Here’s hoping. Phoebe de Larrabeiti joined Global Citizens Circle (GCC) as its assistant director in February 2020, with a background in nonprofit management, event organizing and higher education liaison. She works concurrently as a licensed therapist with experience of group facilitation and a particular interest in trauma resolution. Doesn’t democracy demand that we hold those in power accountable? 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.
 By Michael Lockett My introduction to the GCC (Global Citizens Circle) was random and beautiful. Picture this: I was working with a longtime Circle member on a separate project when he invited me to create an intro for a Circle on monuments. You know, those grand statues erected to glorify folks who, let's be honest, the world would've been better off without all that bronze and marble. You know, with all the glossed-over global atrocities and all. I created a film piece, and before I knew it, I was in deep. My work with the Circle blossomed into a full-fledged relationship with GCC, and after happily contributing so much, the directors and board eventually invited me to join them. I couldn't have been happier. I'd found my tribe of people committed to making a difference. Both outside and inside GCC, I'm a visual storyteller. That's just a fancy way of saying I'm a screenwriter, director, and semi-reluctant producer. I've always been involved in the arts because it's the one place where you can tell a story exactly the way you see it in your head and, if you're lucky, convince others to see it the same way, too. Whether behind the camera, in front of a blank page, or begrudgingly managing a budget, my goal is always the same: to tell stories that matter. Sometimes they entertain, sometimes they educate, and sometimes they do a bit of both. But they always, always make you think. My journey into activism wasn't so much a decision as it was a destiny. Being a BIPOC person in America means that activism is almost a default setting. Just existing and trying to thrive in this environment puts you in that space, whether you like it or not. As a kid, my parents often took me to soup kitchens to serve. As much as I tried to hate it, cutting into my time with friends and toys, there was a strange joy in serving others. I kept volunteering, and as I grew up with a deep understanding of the world's precarious state — thanks, white supremacist, patriarchal colonizers — it wasn't so much a leap into activism as it was a continuation of service. My cause, if you want to call it that, is to dismantle white supremacist colonizing principles and actions. It's the gateway drug to pretty much every societal ill we face today. Dismantling white supremacy might sound like an impossible task, but I believe there's a doable two-step solution. First, we need to get real about our history — no sugar-coating, no glossing over the atrocities. We need actual truth-telling on a global scale, explaining what was done, why it was done, and by whom. Once we get that straight, we can move on to the next step: reparations. This means reimbursing for compounded losses and returning stolen relics and resources. If we did this, the entire world could reset, and we'd be looking at a whole new ballgame within a generation. Sure, it sounds daunting, but what's the alternative – more of the same? My educational background is in visual communications, and I'm grateful that I get to use it every day to push this massive boulder of change further up the hill. Whether through film, social media, or public speaking, I use the tools I've learned to amplify voices that need to be heard and to tell stories that need to be told. Down the road, I hope to keep using these skills to create even more impactful work, maybe even tackling projects I haven't dared to dream of yet. In terms of inspiration, leadership, or encouragement, I don't have to look far. GCC is filled with amazing people doing brave things for the betterment of humanity, and they inspire me every day. But I also draw a lot of strength from the lessons my parents taught me, and from my wife and son, who are both outspoken, joyful warriors in their own unique ways. They keep me grounded and remind me why the fight is worth it. Finally, to the young people out there who are itching to create positive change, here's my advice: find your tribe. Find those like-minded, motivated, and collaborative changemakers who can keep you buoyant and focused. An individual might get swept away by the storm, but a group can withstand anything. And remember, the world doesn't change by accident — it changes because people like you refuse to let injustice rule the day. So, get out there and make some waves. Michael Lockett is a New York screenwriter, director, and sometimes producer. A lifelong storyteller, Michael graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in visual communications. After a stint in advertising, periodical design, and marketing/PR, he delved back into the longer storytelling forms with film and TV screenwriting. Although specializing in horror with dark, thought-provoking overtones, Michael is always prepared and happy to lend a hand or idea to make his or others' projects a success. 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. And remember, the world doesn't change by accident — it changes because people like you refuse to let injustice rule the day. So, get out there and make some waves. 
By Pamme Boutselis
Some of the most powerful conversations happen within Global Citizens Circle's Circle events. But they don't end there. The thought-provoking revelations and ideas are brought forth into new arenas by all who attend. The problem was, though, you had to be there, to enter into the initial conversation and take away these valuable thoughts to keep them going. But when Covid entered the picture, the conversation widened via virtual Circles. The Circles were recorded and shared in the aftermath on YouTube, allowing greater access to all. Now, many of these Circles have been distilled into bite-sized pieces, opening access even more via GCC's Dialogue2Action series. Each edition features a video synopsis and discussion guide of these incredible events. This is perfect for broadening individual and group understanding – and furthering the conversation even more. During these troubling and often divisive times, Dialogue2Action may be just what you need to better understand complicated issues, find talking points to open discussion with others, and create solutions in places where you may have felt like you had none. We invite you to watch this 20-minute video, “Movements for Change: Stories of Challenge and Success” featuring:
And then, review the Movements for Change discussion guide to see how you, too, can continue this conversation.
Be sure to check out all of the featured discussions in Dialogue2Action. Pamme Boutselis is an award-winning writer and content producer, currently serving as a senior director of content marketing and a communication adjunct at Southern New Hampshire University. She loves hearing and sharing stories. As a writer spanning a 25-plus-year career, her work has been featured in print and online via news media, career and education-focused blogs, regional magazines, technology publications and more. A serial volunteer, Boutselis has been a TEDx organizer since 2013 and a speaker coach. She’s been fortunate to work with dozens of nonprofits throughout the years and serves as a communication advisor for Global Citizens Circle. Connect with her on LinkedIn. 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. If you do not join in; if you do not take action to solve your particular issue, it's never going to get solved...so you've got to understnad that you're the one that has to step up...and do whatever it takes to solve this issue."  Global Citizen Circle Board Chair Sean O'Kane is a retired executive with 30+ years of experience in customer relations, operations, business development, alliance building, thought leadership, strategic management, and growth in both the private and public sectors, nationally and globally. He has held successful careers in hospitality, government, and technology. Beyond GCC, Sean serves – and has served – on several boards, including NH Public Broadcasting System, Franklin Pierce University (2013-2023), Bellwether Community Credit Union, Sail Portsmouth/Sea Challenge, and Granite United Way, Community Impact Committee. Tell us a bit about your professional background and how it led you to where you are today. I enjoyed a 24-year career in the hospitality industry. Although I never worked for Dunfey International Hotels, I first met Jack (Dunfey) in 1963 when I was 8 years old. It was the influence of the Dunfeys and my deep admiration for the family that led to my own hotel career. In my career, I was recognized as the General Manager of the Year in New Hampshire, General Manager of the Year in the U.S by the American Hotel and Lodging Association, and Travel Person of the Year in New Hampshire. I also served as the chair of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, chair of the NH Lodging and Restaurant Association and as vice chair of the NH Political Library. In 2004, I was appointed, by then-Governor Benson, as Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development. In that time, I led trade missions to 11 countries, promoting New Hampshire-based businesses to overseas opportunities and was awarded the Medal of Peace and Commerce by the U.S. Department of Commerce. In my role, I oversaw the Divisions of Economic Development, Travel and Tourism Development, State Parks and Land and Forests, such a diverse but fascinating mix of competing interests that naturally fostered wide-ranging discussions about how to best achieve smart and sustainable growth in New Hampshire. After my term, I joined the French-based energy efficiency multinational corporation, Schneider Electric. I worked with 12 dedicated countries in promoting energy-efficiency technologies for the 4 and 5-star global hotel market and served on the Advisory Board for the Center of Hospitality Research at Cornell University. I am now retired, serving on several boards, most notably with Global Citizens Circle. When did you first learn about Global Citizens Circle, and how has your engagement grown with GCC over the years? I was first introduced to GCC in 1998, after returning to New Hampshire to run a convention hotel in Manchester. I attended a few Circles at the Parker House and was completely taken in by the level and content of the dialogue they fostered. I took notice of the number of New Hampshire people who attended these Circles and offered to host a couple of Circles at the hotel in Manchester to make it more accessible for these New Hampshire residents. Some years later, I met with Eleanor Dunfey-Freiburger and learned of the efforts to reconstitute GCC in collaboration with Southern New Hampshire University. I subsequently joined as an advisor and then joined the board just a few years ago. What have been some of the most meaningful experiences you've had through GCC? It is impossible not to be in awe of the incredibly successful outreach and influence the Dunfey family has had in global conflicts and social issues. Their partners and advisors consisted of global leaders, social activists, Nobel Prize recipients, elders, and emerging leaders, all focused on open discussion and the sharing of experiences and knowledge to encourage proactive efforts to resolving conflict, to finding peace and to promoting diversity, equality and inclusion. In a world so fragmented by violence and politics, these accomplishments resonated strongly with me. What do you tell others about the benefits of supporting and participating in GCC events and activities? We have made recent efforts to re-engage with business leaders, returning to our founding days, to focus on addressing social, environmental, and conflict issues and challenges that we face today. These leaders are in the position to address issues facing us in our respective communities. While some in the political theatre have attempted to make diversity, equity and inclusion a divisive concept, the reality is businesses face major challenges that a diverse employment base brings as well as in the communities in which they operate. An openness to understanding and working with a diverse employment base and community is critical for success today. And, the fact of the matter is, a diverse community offers new ideas, insight, energy, and engagement that keeps us from becoming stagnant. This is the very definition of the successes that have brought us to where we are today. As Board Chair, what are your goals for GCC? As Board Chair, and in our current fiscal year, my objectives are to provide more board support to the remarkable work GCC Executive Director and President Theo Spanos Dunfey and Assistant Director Phoebe de Larrabeiti accomplish, sharply enhance our fundraising efforts, grow our board membership with an emphasis on targeting key business leaders, and to support our outreach in expanding our Emerging Leaders program and Global Partners. It is impossible not to be in awe of the incredibly successful outreach and influence the Dunfey family has had in global conflicts and social issues. Tito Jackson, the chairman emeritus of Global Citizens Circle's Board, speaks to what GCC has meant to him over the years, why it remains vital in his life, and how we all benefit from GCC and its mission.  By Nadine Hack I’ve been involved with Global Citizens Circle (GCC) for 40 of its 50 years, since 1984 when I met my husband Jerry Dunfey, its founding president. I love its inclusive, egalitarian mission to connect people of diverse sectors, ages, nationalities, ethnicities, genders, and socioeconomic status. It champions intergenerational dialogue to find sustainable solutions for global problems that require multiple perspectives. GCC teaches us: We may not agree on every issue but we can respect and learn from each other. I cherish being in its worldwide community engaging in discussions, then joining in actions to promote social justice, equality and peace. I’ve helped organize and participated in many Circles over four decades. GCC has a credo, “Start young and stay at it.” When GCC connects us with young activists, it encourages us to remain connected to them for decades. It’s done this throughout the U.S., Northern Ireland, the Middle East, Latin America, Asia, South Africa, and wherever there are problems that need broad support for a sustained time.  At GCC's 2019 intergenerational Circle, "Building Movements for Change: Stories of Challenge and Success," with facilitator Jada Keye Hebra, SVP & Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Southern New Hampshire University; Lauren Hogg, co-founder, March for Our Lives; Dolores Huerta, co-founder of United Farm Workers; and Ramla Sahid, founder, Partnership for Advancement of New Americans  At a 1985 Boston Circle:: Thabo Mbeki, later to be president South Africa; Zodwa Sisulu; Oliver Tambo, ANC president; Themba Vilakazi, FREESA co-founder; Prexy Nesbitt, global anti-apartheid activist; Zwelakhe Sisulu, journalist, editor, New Nation newspaper founder In 1985, a Circle in Boston featured Oliver Tambo, the president of the African National Congress (ANC). Other exiled South Africans attended, including Zwelakhe Sisulu, a Fulbright Scholar at Harvard; Johnny Makatini, head of the ANC’s international arm; and Thabo Mbeki, a member of its executive committee. It was the first time many of them had seen each other since they’d gone into exile. So, not only was GCC introducing them to Americans who wanted to know more about the anti-apartheid movement but also reconnecting them to one another.  At 1990 Circle, GCC founding President Jerry Dunfey and Senior Advisor Nadine Hack present the Global Citizens Circle award to Nelson Mandela. Many Circles focused on how to end apartheid and, after it, how to support negotiations leading to South Africa’s free and fair elections. When Nelson Mandela was released from prison in 1990, Jerry and I presented the Global Citizens Award to him in Washington DC.  In 1986, GCC held a Circle in Washington, D.C., on the eve of the U.S. congressional vote on sanctions featuring social justice advocate and world-renowned performer Harry Belafonte and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Laureate. Many senior legislative aides to members of the US Senate and House of Representatives said the decision to vote for sanctions was largely made based on Archbishop Tutu’s stirring words.  In 1998, GCC brought a delegation of 68 democracy activists from nine countries to South Africa for visits to and discussions with local activists including a group convened in Alexandria Township by Linda Twala, affectionately called ‘the father of the nation’ in Alex Town. Along the sagging banks at the outskirts of the shantytown, he had locals hold hands with us in a circle. There wasn’t a dry eye as he spoke about the importance of our international solidarity with them to end poverty and create opportunity for everyone in his nation.  In that same trip, Archbishop Desmond Tutu welcomed us to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Justices Albie Sachs and Richard Goldstone took us around the new Constitutional Court; Walter and Albertina Sisulu hosted us at her Creche after we attended a service at Ipeleng church in Soweto; Ahmed Kathrada showed us around the Robben Island prison where he and Mandela had been cell mates and Sisulu, who accompanied us on the boat ride there; we met with members of the new multi-racial Parliament and even with President Mandela. In 1999, at a Circle in Atlanta, we presented the Global Citizens Award to Coretta Scott King and to John Hume, a leading peacemaker in Northern Ireland, another region we’d focused on. We’d brought GCC delegations to Belfast and hosted numerous Circles on ‘The Troubles’ there and in the U.S. from the 1970s through the 2000s.  In 1999, Maria Freiburger, Jerry Dunfey, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Ambassador Andrew Young presented the Global Citizens Award to Coretta Scott King and to John Hume. Since COVID, online Circles have had an even greater global reach since anyone can join from wherever they are on the planet. Some of GCC’s recent Circles include:
In these and other Circles, discussion leaders conveyed how much they valued Global Citizens Circle, and how touched they were that we listened to their stories and pledged ongoing support of their causes. In our deeply divided world, Global Citizens Circle is needed now more than ever! Nadine Hack is the CEO of beCause Global Consulting, helping individuals and organizations connect to core purpose – creating synergy within entities, improving relations among internal and external stakeholders and enabling challenges to be overcome and goals become achieved – for nearly 40 years. She has worked with leaders globally in business, NGOs, academia and government, including Nelson Mandela. Nadine is a senior advisor to Global Citizens Circle, the first female Executive-in-Residence at IMD Business School, a Forbes Councils author, and a TEDx speaker, whose talk, “Adversaries to Allies,” is viewed worldwide. She has garnered many awards throughout her career, including Responsible CEO of Year Shortlist, Top Corporate Social Responsibility Leader, Top Ethical Business Influencer, Enterprising Woman of the Year, Catalyst for Change, an Inspiration Life Achievement presented at Säid Business School Oxford. She is currently writing a book, “The Power of Connectedness,” with a foreword by the Archbishop Desmond Tutu. |
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