This week, the House and Senate voted to claw back $1 billion in previously authorized funding for United Nations programs — eliminating support for global health, peacekeeping and emergency response. It’s a blow to U.S. leadership at precisely the moment the world needs it most. While lawmakers protected the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and shielded some funds for malaria, TB, polio and nutrition, deeper cuts leave millions vulnerable and put America's global leadership at risk.

“These cuts aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet,” warned Peter Yeo, President of the Better World Campaign. “They’re a retreat from the world.”

A coalition of non-profit organizations — from UNA-USA to ReSurge International — called on Congress to reverse course. And though rescissions may have passed, the current FY26 budget proposal threatens further cuts. It's clear our collective work is far from over. “Americans overwhelmingly support the UN because they understand that global challenges require global solutions,” said Rachel Pittman of UNA-USA.

See how the Better World Campaign and its partners are reacting — and learn more about the accounts and agencies likely to be hardest hit as we break down the numbers.  

The UNA-USA Atlanta Chapter strongly opposes the Administration’s proposed rescissions package, which would slash over $8 billion in international assistance—including critical support for UNICEF, UN peacekeeping, and global health programs.

These cuts threaten the lifesaving work of the United Nations, undermine global stability, and weaken U.S. leadership on the world stage. At a time when global crises are growing, walking away from our commitments makes Americans less safe and opens the door for rivals to fill the void.
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We urge our Georgia Senators and all members of Congress to reject these harmful cuts and stand up for U.S. values, smart diplomacy, and the partnerships that keep our world—and our country—more secure.

Tracy Gray
President
United Nations Association of the United States of America
Atlanta Chapter

As part of our commitment to the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, UNA-Atlanta is proud to highlight the work of Sam Ford, founder of WestAfrican.net, a dynamic digital platform celebrating the culture, creativity, and contributions of the West African diaspora.

A veteran journalist with 50 years of reporting experience, Ford was inspired to launch West African Network by a deep appreciation for history and a desire to create a positive, unifying space for stories rooted in West African heritage. Drawing from both his personal journey and professional background—including decades spent reporting on civil rights, Black history, and international affairs—Ford created the platform to centralize information about the diverse cultures, achievements, and struggles of people across the West African diaspora.

“I didn’t see one place where you could find comprehensive information about the culture of our people,” Ford shared. “It was either politics or religion—but I wanted to put it all together.”

Ford’s work reflects his fascination with the power of the internet to inform, inspire, and connect communities across continents. Through WestAfrican.net, he curates stories that reflect the modern-day evolution of African identity—highlighting everything from the return of descendants of enslaved Africans to Benin and Nigeria, to the presence of West African heritage in places like Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.

“My favorite stories were informational stories—to tell people what they don’t know,” he explained. Whether it’s revealing little-known histories such as the enslaved Africans held by Cherokee Indians or spotlighting leaders who bridged continents through activism and education, Ford’s mission is rooted in truth-telling and cultural affirmation.

More than just a digital archive, WestAfrican.net is a space for cultural dialogue, memory, and forward-looking vision—aligned closely with the United Nations' global goals for recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent. Ford is particularly passionate about presenting history in a way that is affirming and connective: “I like history that is supportive of Black people—not accusatory of others—but something positive that helps unite us.”

UNA-Atlanta is pleased to partner with Ford to bring you these stories—amplifying voices too often overlooked and fostering deeper understanding and connection across the African diaspora. As he continues to grow the platform and plan interviews with notable figures, Ford remains committed to using storytelling as a tool for education and empowerment.
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We invite our members and readers to explore WestAfrican.net and engage with this vibrant, evolving community resource.

June 26 marked 80 years since the signing of the United Nations Charter—the historic agreement that laid the groundwork for international peace, security, and human rights. This milestone reminds us of the power of global cooperation and the enduring importance of multilateralism in addressing today’s most urgent challenges.

As members of the United Nations Association of Atlanta, we renew our commitment to advancing that legacy by championing the UN’s work, advocating for robust U.S. engagement, and mobilizing communities nationwide in support of global progress.

​Watch this video to learn why the UN Charter matters now more than ever—80 years after its signing.

Today, UNA-Atlanta joins the global community in observing the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.

Observed under the theme "The Future of Peacekeeping," this year's International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last nearly eight decades. Since 1948, more than two million men and women have served under the UN flag in over 70 peace operations. 

On today's observance, UN Secretary-General António Guterres underlined that now more than ever, the world needs the UN, and the UN needs UN peacekeeping. 

​As we honor their legacy, we call on all UNA-Atlanta members and supporters to advocate for continued U.S. funding and support for UN peacekeeping missions. These efforts are essential to global stability and to the protection of civilians in conflict zones around the world.

By Iesha Baldwin, Vice President of Membership

Happy Earth Day! In celebration of Earth Day 2025, the United Nations Association of Atlanta hosted a heartfelt screening of Wall-E, the beloved animated film by The Walt Disney Company, at the Joan P. Garner Library at Ponce De Leon. While it may be categorized as a family film, Wall-E speaks volumes to people of all ages. 

The film offers a gripping, emotional portrayal of a world ravaged by carelessness, overconsumption, and environmental neglect. Through the eyes of a lonely little robot left to clean up Earth’s waste, we’re reminded of just how much damage can be done when we prioritize convenience over care. But more importantly, Wall-E also presents a message of hope. It shows us that with heart, determination, and the help of technology, restoration is possible. Robotics and innovation, when guided by ethical intentions, can become tools for healing both our planet and our relationships with one another.

What truly touched me and made me shed a tear was the atmosphere in the room. The audience was a beautiful blend of cultures, backgrounds, and generations. From curious kindergarteners experiencing the film for the first time to elders who have witnessed firsthand the evolution of our environmental challenges, we sat side by side, laughing, gasping, and reflecting together. In that space, it was clear: this is what our world needs more of. 

We need more moments of shared learning, more intergenerational storytelling, and more opportunities to be in community --connected not only to each other but also to the Earth.

Events like this one serve as reminders that solving our global environmental and social problems requires collective action. No one is too young, too old, or too different to make a difference.

If Wall-E teaches us anything, it’s that it’s never too late to change course. And if today’s audience teaches us anything, it’s that the change we need begins with unity, compassion, and the courage to care.

If you're interested in learning more about how technology can create a better world, I invite you to tune in to the UNA AI & SDG Series. I'll be speaking on May 21st from 6:00 PM to 8:45 PM EST—sharing insights on how artificial intelligence and innovation can support the Sustainable Development Goals.

​RSVP here: UNA Youth Affinity Group AI for SDGs Series Conversation Circles

And if you're passionate about intergenerational communities and want to be part of the UNA-ATL intergenerational family, become a member and attend our events!

Join UNA-Atlanta for a free Earth Day screening of Common Ground — an award-winning documentary that explores the urgent climate crisis through the lens of regenerative agriculture and the farmers working to heal our soil, food system, and future.

This powerful film is a call to action and a celebration of solutions rooted in sustainability, justice, and community resilience.

April 22, 2025
12:00 - 3:00 PM

Manuel's Tavern
602 North Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

The 2025 US-UN Advocacy Summit: Stronger, Safer & More Prosperous Together is your opportunity to raise your voice and help shape the future of U.S. global engagement.
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At a time when critical UN programs and agencies are facing severe funding cuts, this summit serves as a call to action for advocates who believe in a more just, peaceful, and interconnected world. Whether you're a seasoned UN supporter or just beginning your advocacy journey, this two-day gathering will empower you with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to make a real impact. Apply TODAY; deadline is April 21st.