CSW69 Reflection: Peggy Free

SECRETARTY-GENERAL

Hearing Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, at the opening ceremony was meaningful to me. He told us that women’s rights are under siege by the backlash happening around the world. He warned us of the need to stand up and speak out. He said that the promise of the Beijing Platform of 1995 has not come further because laws are not funded for action. Some of his points are as follows:

• STEM availability for women and girls is limited around the world;
• The UN levels the playing field for women’s leadership and decision making ability;
• CSW is a touchstone for equality. The world is watching as we ignite the world. Not just by talking but as a foundation of a just world.

At this same presentation, the President of the Economic and Social Council said that this is the moment to make choices; to move forward on gender equality through education. The fight faces stagnation and a risk of back sliding. We need the courage to face challenges – not allow language such as, “women must know their place.”

OVERALL OBSERVATIONS

At each event I attended, and while strolling through the United Nations buildings, I was made aware of the cultural and ethnic makeup of the world. It was eye opening to realize that I was much in the minority. It was encouraging to hear so many powerful women from all over the world. They were passionate, hopeful, uplifting, and forward thinking.

I heard women from Scandanavia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, America, and Asia, all speaking with one voice. Each group has a passionate cause, but all are lifting up women and girls. This gives me hope and a desire to do something. I learned that everyone can make a difference, no matter how small the effort. CSW is making a difference, raising awareness of gender equality, and providing a platform for action.

PRESBYTERIAN DELEGATION AND ECUMENICAL WOMEN

• The orientations provided were very helpful, especially for a first-time attendee. The e-mails provided before the meeting were useful in planning for the event.
• I loved the theme, “Justice and Joy.” Morning worship was a great way to start each day.
• I learned that Ecumenical Women have a social media presence and valuable information was on their Facebook page.
• I heard that there is a crisis of “good people not speaking out.” I learned that access to digital media is important in the advancement of women. It was pointed out that women do not always have equal access to education, health care and jobs.
• Zero violence against women and girls is a lofty goal.
• Full and equal decision-making power in private life and at all levels of engagement need to be addressed.
• Peace and security goals need to be fully financed.
• Climate justice – We need the leadership of young women; men must be part of the conversation. I heard that you don’t compliment a fish for swimming.
• I heard that there is a crisis of “good people not speaking out.” I learned that access to digital media is important in the advancement of women. It was pointed out that women do not always have equal access to education, health care and jobs.
• Zero violence against women and girls is a lofty goal.
• Full and equal decision-making power in private life and at all levels of engagement need to be addressed.
• Peace and security goals need to be fully financed.
• Climate justice – We need the leadership of young women; men must be part of the conversation. I heard that you don’t compliment a fish for swimming.