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By Theo Spanos Dunfey GCC Assistant Director Phoebe de Larrabeiti and I recently attended CSW69, which marks the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, held at the United Nation Headquarters in New York. We are grateful to Marlyn Tadros, CEO and Executive Director of Digital Democracy Now for hosting GCC at UNCSW. A highlight was meeting one of GCC's Emerging Leaders, Nilab Ahmadi from Afghanistan, and celebrating her selection for the UN youth cohort. We enjoyed GCC Board member Priscilla Lee’s presentation on Afghan girls’ education and were deeply moved by a panel of survivors of sexual abuse and prostitution. Inspiring sessions featured young leaders and storytellers, while cultural moments included learning a Maori proverb and enjoying their singing. A final interactive session felt like a fitting celebration of our experiences and gave us hope for what’s to come. I hope you enjoy this video compilation of our time at CSW69. 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. I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past.
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 By Kibar Moussoba I was sitting in my classroom on 9/11 when someone turned to me and said: “Kibar, was that you? What did you do? Was your dad flying that plane?” I froze. It took me a moment to even process what had just been said. The news had been playing on all TVs showing footage of smoke, destruction, and fear. And now, somehow, I was being linked to it. I didn’t have the words to explain how wrong that moment was. All I knew was that things were changing, and quickly. In the weeks and months after 9/11, I was no longer just a kid in high school. I was an Arab-American that constantly had to look over my shoulder. It didn't matter that I was 15 years old. It didn't matter that I was Christian. It didn't matter that I lived in rural New Hampshire with absolutely no connection to any terrorist organization. The bullying, name calling, and snickering at my expense continued longer than I care to explain. What I learned years later is this: when people don’t understand you, they create their own version of your story. And the best way to change that was to tell your own story before they tell it for you. For a long time, I stayed silent. I kept my head down. I knew that if I ignored the comments, they would simply go away. The following year, my English teacher announced a school-wide essay contest inviting students to share their reflections on 9/11 and what freedom meant to us. At first, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to participate. After all, I was not in a positive state of mind about this topic so I saw no reason to subject myself to this exercise. But, of course, the same day they announced this essay contest, the kid that was making my life miserable for a year decided to take another stab at me. I wrote the whole thing that night. I wrote about my family’s journey to America. About what it meant to leave behind a war-torn country. About how proud we were to become citizens. And about how, after 9/11, that sense of belonging was gone for me and most Arab-Americans in this country. When I was selected to read my essay in front of the entire school, I was terrified. The same students who had been bullying me, who had laughed, who had made me feel like an outsider — they would all be in that room. What felt like the next day, I stepped onto that stage as the last finalist to read their essay. I closed my eyes, and with slight anger in my voice I belted out the first words, "I was born during a war." Over the next 4 minutes I spoke about freedom from my lens, but what it could truly look like. I spoke about the façade of unity in this country. I spoke about pride and perseverance; how escaping war from my birth country only led to war in this country. When I finished, there was silence. I could practically hear the jaws hitting the floor. I was unsure if what I had just done was going to help me or hurt me, but the principal encouraged everyone to applaud and I walked off stage. As we exited the assembly, something unexpected happened. The one kid who led the charge at making my life miserable for the past year stopped me in the hallway. He looked at me, but didn't say anything this time. As he stuck out his hand, his blank face turned to remorse. He didn’t say a word. But he didn’t have to. That moment told me everything. He saw me. That moment taught me a lesson I will never forget: stories have the power to shift perspectives in ways that arguments never will. People fear what they don’t understand. When we don’t know someone’s story, we fill in the blanks with assumptions. The best way to break down bias is to make yourself known. Stories create connection. Facts inform. But stories connect. When someone hears your lived experience, they don’t just process information — they feel it. When you share your truth, you take back control. For a short amount of time, I let others define my identity. But telling my story helped me reclaim it. So, if you feel misunderstood — don’t allow yourself to shrink. Share your story. Let people see you. Because when they do, their perspective might change forever. We all have a story that could change someone’s perspective. My story brought me to the TEDx stage. Ask yourself, what’s one part of your story that others could benefit from hearing? Kibar Moussoba is the senior program manager of People Experience at Southern New Hampshire University, where he leads strategic Inclusive Listening initiatives to enhance employee engagement and equity, diversity, and inclusion. With a deep passion for fostering meaningful workplace experiences, he helps drive key initiatives aligned with the university’s strategic goals. Beyond his role at SNHU, Kibar is an award-winning entertainer and professional DJ, known for creating unforgettable experiences at events across New England and beyond. His love for music began at the age of five with piano lessons, and by 19, he had launched his professional DJ career with Main Event Entertainment. Originally from Beirut, Lebanon, but having spent most of his life in Southern New Hampshire, he developed his DJing skills early and quickly became a sought-after performer. His ability to blend diverse musical influences and craft dynamic atmospheres has made him one of New England’s top DJs. In addition to his professional commitments, Kibar serves on the Board of Directors for the Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester and has been recognized with several accolades, including the prestigious 40 Under Forty award in New Hampshire. He is also a TEDx speaker, sharing insights on resilience, perspective, and personal growth. A husband and father of two, Kibar balances his career with his dedication to family, mentorship, and making a meaningful impact in every space he enters. 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. When we don’t know someone’s story, we fill in the blanks with assumptions. The best way to break down bias is to make yourself known. Stories create connection. Facts inform. But stories connect. When someone hears your lived experience, they don’t just process information — they feel it. When you share your truth, you take back control. Embarking on a Journey to Sierra Leone: A Quest for Peacebuilding and Reconciliation (Part 2)2/17/2025  Suraj Budathoki, Ahmad Bakdad, France Bognon, Interim CEO, International Civil Society Action Network; Jesica Rhone, Director of International Programs, McConnell Foundation By Suraj Budathoki Although I have never visited a war zone or country ravaged by conflict, the desire to visit these places, meet with people who have lived through unimaginable circumstances, and learn from their experiences has always been deep-rooted in me. My doctoral studies over time, now have revolved around theories aimed at mending the acrimony between warring parties. I have invested reasonable time reading, researching their implementation, and scrutinizing the ingrained challenges in such processes. Still, there is something incomparable about moving out of the academic world and into the real stories of those affected by conflict. I am grateful to Global Citizens Circle for allowing me to deepen my understanding through meaningful dialogue and engagement. This incredible organization has been a cornerstone of my development as a peacebuilder, continually encouraging me to link theory with practice. During one of these moments of connection, Theo Spanos Dunfey, the president and executive director of Global Citizens Circle, a remarkable mentor and friend, reached out to me with an opportunity that filled me with excitement. Theo’s email was concise but electrifying: there was a chance to attend the Constellation for Peace 2 (CP2) conference,organized by Catalyst for Peace and Fambul Tok, in Sierra Leone. As soon as I read the message, my curiosity led me to research the country, its civil war, and the groundbreaking reconciliation work that has occurred since. Sierra Leone endured a brutal civil war from 1991 to 2002 that left unforgettable marks. However, the nation has also been an extraordinary testament to the power of reconciliation, community healing, and grassroots peacebuilding. A Global Gathering of Peace Activists Being part of a global gathering of peace activists was exciting. Delegates from across the world—Northern Ireland, Nepal, Germany, Gambia, and beyond came together to share their experiences and learn from one another. It was not only an opportunity to observe peacebuilding in action but also to play a part in the collective effort to imagine a more harmonious world. I also shared my experiences with Peace Initiative Bhutan—a newly minted organization to foster peace and reconciliation with Bhutan through sincere dialogue. We do not believe in ushering in positive peace by defeating the other side, as we have spent more than three decades with that intention. Now, with the establishment of Peace Initiative Bhutan, we want to create a win-win solution where both parties emerge into dialogue in a mutually respectful environment for the betterment of the affected people. When I arrived in Sierra Leone, we boarded a bus to Freetow followed by a ferry to our final destination. Our journey across the water felt significant and transforming; I felt I was crossing a bridge of new understanding and solidarity, from conflict to cooperation, understanding war and division to unity. Accordingly, I, too, am transforming from an individual with my own concerns about Bhutan to a global citizen with an appreciation for and commitment to peacebuilding worldwide. Immersion and Learning in Villages Our schedule included traveling to villages badly affected by the civil war. I looked forward to this part of the trip the most—meeting people who had experienced the war firsthand and hearing their stories of loss, survival, and reconciliation. Each of the villages we visited symbolized a testament to human toughness and community’s transformative power. In one of the villages, I encountered a woman who had lost all her family members to the war. Despite her unthinkable pain, she had become a community leader and “Peace Mother,” championing dialogue and healing among former combatants and victims. Her story made me shed tears but also gave me a renewed sense of purpose in my own journey as a peacebuilder. Something she said will stay with me for eternity: “Forgiveness is not easy, but it is the only way forward.” Witnessing a traditional ceremony where community members publicly forgave one another and committed to rebuilding trust was yet another indelible experience. These ceremonies are rooted in Sierra Leone's culture and traditions; they also offer a powerful example of how local practices can be integral to peacebuilding. Insights and Takeaways I learned a lot from the conference and the village visits. Peacebuilding is not a one-stop endeavor; it requires humility, listening, and a willingness to adapt to the needs and contexts of the people involved. I heard stories about pain and also about the courage to heal and move forward. Those stories reminded me that reconciliation is not a destination but a journey—one that demands patience and steady commitment. Building a Global Network for Peace Aside from the lessons, the trip was an opportunity to build relationships with peacebuilders from around the world. During meals and conversations, we exchanged ideas, strategies, and dreams for a more peaceful future. These connections are a source of hope and remind us that we are not alone in this work. On my way back from Freetown at the end of the trip, I felt an immense sense of gratitude—for the chance to be part of something larger than myself, for the people who shared their stories, and for the global community of peacebuilders I am now privileged to call friends. This journey to Sierra Leone was both a professional milestone and a profoundly personal one, confirming my belief in the power of human connection and the possibility of a more peaceful world. I am returning home not just with stories and lessons but with a revitalized commitment to continue the work of peacebuilding and reconciliation. Although long, the road ahead promises hope, healing, and transformation. Part I of this blog may be found here. Suraj Budathoki is the co-founder and president of Peace Initiative Bhutan, which is committed to fostering positive change in Bhutan through reconciliation. His organization partners with Global Citizens Circle, collaborating to share resources and knowledge in peacebuilding through sincere dialogue. In addition to his peace work, Suraj is a doctoral student in Transformative Social Change at Saybrook University in California, and he was recently elected to serve in the NH State House of Representatives. 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. Reconciliation is not a destination but a journey—one that demands patience and steady commitment. Regardless of where we are in the world, we’re witnessing division—pulling so many of us farther apart in opposite directions. For those of us who continue to hope, and to believe in the power of respectful dialogue, Global Citizens Circle (GCC) offers pathways so that we may share this hope and belief with others. Then, they too can create ways forward to positive engagement in their communities. One critical tool is GCC’s Dialogue2Action series, based on our Circle events, with the goal of furthering the conversation throughout our global communities, so we may begin to see the possibilities available to us all.  An especially pertinent topic may well be “Healing Divisions: Embracing Our Common Humanity,” featuring moderator Judith Thompson, Ph.D., co-founder of Children of War, Inc., with discussion leaders Rosalie Gerut,the daughter of Holocaust survivors and co-founder of One by One; Tony McAleer, former leader of a Neo-Nazi skinhead organization and co-founder of Life After Hate; and Belvie Rooks, co-founder of Growing a Global Heart. The ”Healing Divisions” Discussion Guide features discussion prompts to consider as you go through the discussion program, which includes a thorough introduction, before delving into sections on toxic shame, the power of radical compassion, accountability and reconciliation – as well as the video below. This comprehensive discussion guide was developed by Dr. Christina Cliff, associate professor of political science and security studies at Franklin Pierce University. Access the guide here and the related video here. Receiving compassion from someone we don’t deserve it from is incredibly powerful information. 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.  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. 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 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. |
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