The 2023 Advocacy Leads and Mobilization Summit was a defining moment for the United Nations Association of the United States of America, Atlanta Chapter. It set the stage for an even more impactful 2024. The reverberations of our collective efforts from last year's summit still echo, and I am excited to embark on this journey with all of you.
As the President of UNA-ATL, I had the privilege of leading our chapter through a whirlwind of action during the United for Impact 2023 UNA-USA Leadership Summit in Washington, DC. It was a profound experience to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow advocates on Capitol Hill, pushing for the United Nations mission. This powerful advocacy laid the groundwork for our 2024 Vision, and it's only the beginning.
In 2024, we’re taking our momentum to new heights with the upcoming Virtual Mobilization Summit on September 12th and 13th. Imagine the energy, commitment, and drive when we come together virtually to engage our Georgia congressional representatives in day-long Zoom meetings. This summit is our chance to be part of a transformative movement.
This work isn't just about advocacy—it's about empowering our chapter with new skills in public speaking, leadership, and community organizing. It’s about coming together to influence policy, promote social justice, protect human rights, and drive systemic change. It's about exercising our democratic rights and holding elected officials accountable. And it’s about feeling the incredible pride that comes from knowing we're making a difference.
Joining me on September 12 for the 2024 Advocacy Leads and Mobilization Summit will be UNA-USA Executive Director Richel Pittman, UNA-ATL members Emmanuel Adeyemi and Dr. Selen Beduk, and other passionate advocates. Together, we’ll bring Atlanta's voices to our members of Congress.
The overwhelming support from our Atlanta Chapter members fuels our efforts, and recent surveys confirm that we’re on the right path—69% of voters believe the U.N. is crucial today, and 74% agree that the U.S. should collaborate with international organizations to achieve foreign policy goals. These numbers are more than just statistics; they are a testament to the importance of our work.
Let’s harness this momentum and make 2024 a year of transformative action!