French Colonization in Algeria
Asha Taha
French troops in Algiers, Algeria, in 1956. AP
The pain of French colonial rule in Algeria, as well as the violent liberation struggle that ended it in 1962, has plagued ties between the two nations for decades, and has had an impact in a diplomatic feud that escalated in the past.
France's 100-year colonization of Algeria, as well as the brutal 1954-62 battle for independence, have left deep wounds that Macron has poked and massaged throughout his career.
The French torture tactics in Algeria are well-documented, with France acknowledging in 2018 that it employed torture and killing in its former colony to suppress the independence struggle. Many families were misled for years about what occurred to their relatives during the conflict.
As numerous media and academics have pointed out, the need for France to apologize for its colonial history in Algeria (1830-1962) is at the heart of bilateral ties and recurring conflicts between the two nations.
In the latest admission by Paris of its colonial-era misdeeds, President Emmanuel Macron has confessed for the first time that French forces assassinated a senior Algerian revolutionary leader before covering up his death.
Authorities in France had previously claimed that he had committed himself while in jail, a deception that his family members had battled to have debunked for years.
President Emmanuel Macron has stated that he would not "ask forgiveness" from Algeria for French colonialism, but expects to keep working toward peace with his colleague, Abdelmajid Tebboune.
Macron has also challenged whether Algeria constituted as a nation prior to French colonization, eliciting a furious response from Algiers.
The French president also expressed optimism that Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune will visit France in 2023 so that the two may continue their "unique effort of friendship."
Because of the crisis in Ukraine, which has raised desire for North African gas in Europe, as well as the surge in immigration over the Mediterranean, France's ties with Algeria have grown increasingly crucial.
Algeria has since endured a number of considerable events, ranging from President Mohamed Boudiaf's assassination in 1992, to the spark of the 2019 Hirak revolution, which resulted in the ousting of then-President Abdelaziz Bouteflika after he had spent approximately 20 years in power. The consequences of colonialism show widespread pessimism about African development where the victims are blamed for Africa's economic failures and illusive growth.
Peace Justice and Strong Institutions: For Some
Asha taha
A Palestinian woman argues with an Israeli border policeman in the West Bank. Mohamad Torokman/Reuters
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Pro-Ukrainian rallies and protests are popping up across the globe after Russian forces invaded Ukraine hours ago. In Austin, a group gathered outside the State Capitol to show their support for Ukraine. (Photo: CBS Austin)
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Leaders worldwide have been commending the Ukrainian people's fortitude and perseverance since Russia started its assault on Ukrainian cities. Thousands of citizens picked up weapons and joined Ukrainian forces to protect their motherland against an undeniably greater military force as soon as the first Russian troops set foot in Ukraine. Even while rockets began to rain down on Ukraine, destroying military hardware as well as populated neighborhoods, heroic soldiers and residents backing them made it plain that they will defend their country's freedom.
For decades, similar conflicts have raged in places like Syria, Yemen, and Palestine. The resistance and harsh toll of external military intervention have resulted in significantly divergent reactions from Western governments – as well as wildly opposing reportage from media sources.
Israelis flocked to the streets in Tel Aviv to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. They descended with Ukrainian flags and screamed "Free Ukraine," while Palestinian residents stood dumbfounded. Then again, Israelis have never taken to the streets to demand a "Free Palestine" or, at the very least, equal rights for Palestinians living under Israel's apartheid system. To make this situation worse, they are definitely aware that if Palestinians attempt to come to the streets in Israel to shout "Free Palestine" and hoist their own flag, they will be arrested, subjected to police abuse, or worse.
Positive, even encouraging, reports of Ukrainians using Molotov cocktails to assault Russian soldiers were carried by news outlets. Of course, the international press never commended Palestinians for constructing Molotov cocktails and tossing them at Israeli settlers who try to force their way out of their communities. It is bravery and courage when Ukrainians fight against the Russian invader. It is only labeled as terror and illegal when Palestinians do it against the Israeli aggressor.
Ukrainians reserve the right to resist foreign illegal occupation. So do numerous people across the world, who, honestly, do not receive any level of supporting, empathetic, and humanizing coverage from our Western media taking into account how race and islamaphobia come into play in the drastically different way conflicts are covered.
Palestinians have always been symbolic of the Ukrainian people's fight. They, too, risk their lives opposing international superpowers, some holding rocks and other homemade weapons to safeguard their land, motives that global leaders have embraced as part of their sympathy with the Ukrainian opposition. While global leaders rally with a beleaguered Ukrainian people battling for their very survival, Palestinians linger on the wrong side of the geopolitical split for a world of sympathy that will never come.
For decades, similar conflicts have raged in places like Syria, Yemen, and Palestine. The resistance and harsh toll of external military intervention have resulted in significantly divergent reactions from Western governments – as well as wildly opposing reportage from media sources.
Israelis flocked to the streets in Tel Aviv to protest Russia's invasion of Ukraine. They descended with Ukrainian flags and screamed "Free Ukraine," while Palestinian residents stood dumbfounded. Then again, Israelis have never taken to the streets to demand a "Free Palestine" or, at the very least, equal rights for Palestinians living under Israel's apartheid system. To make this situation worse, they are definitely aware that if Palestinians attempt to come to the streets in Israel to shout "Free Palestine" and hoist their own flag, they will be arrested, subjected to police abuse, or worse.
Positive, even encouraging, reports of Ukrainians using Molotov cocktails to assault Russian soldiers were carried by news outlets. Of course, the international press never commended Palestinians for constructing Molotov cocktails and tossing them at Israeli settlers who try to force their way out of their communities. It is bravery and courage when Ukrainians fight against the Russian invader. It is only labeled as terror and illegal when Palestinians do it against the Israeli aggressor.
Ukrainians reserve the right to resist foreign illegal occupation. So do numerous people across the world, who, honestly, do not receive any level of supporting, empathetic, and humanizing coverage from our Western media taking into account how race and islamaphobia come into play in the drastically different way conflicts are covered.
Palestinians have always been symbolic of the Ukrainian people's fight. They, too, risk their lives opposing international superpowers, some holding rocks and other homemade weapons to safeguard their land, motives that global leaders have embraced as part of their sympathy with the Ukrainian opposition. While global leaders rally with a beleaguered Ukrainian people battling for their very survival, Palestinians linger on the wrong side of the geopolitical split for a world of sympathy that will never come.
October 14th, 2021
The Howard University Chapter of the United Nations Association of the United States of America Supports the Demands of the Student Body.
Washington, DC- The Howard University Chapter of the United Nations Association stands in solidarity with our fellow bison. We stand united with the student body, which has been repeatedly neglected and mistreated. We stand in solidarity with the justified demands of the student body, who have collectively decided that enough is enough.
On Tuesday night, following a HUSA Town Hall students from the Live Movement occupied Blackburn and are refusing to leave until school administrators address demands for an in-person town hall with Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick, the reinstatement of affiliate trustee positions with voting power, and a meeting with student leadership on future housing plans. We also recommend that these meetings be live-streamed and/or recorded for full transparency with the university community.
We stand in full support of the following demands:
As the sit-in is entering its second day we implore other organizations on campus to voice their support for our fellow bison. We urge that students take into consideration that the Code of Conduct prohibits these demonstrations and would result in suspension. With that, we encourage our fellow bison to remain safe and avoid being caught on camera and refrain from interviews posted online or with media outlets.
In Truth and Service,
UNA-USA Howard University Executive Board 2021-2022
October 14th, 2021
The Howard University Chapter of the United Nations Association of the United States of America Supports the Demands of the Student Body.
Washington, DC- The Howard University Chapter of the United Nations Association stands in solidarity with our fellow bison. We stand united with the student body, which has been repeatedly neglected and mistreated. We stand in solidarity with the justified demands of the student body, who have collectively decided that enough is enough.
On Tuesday night, following a HUSA Town Hall students from the Live Movement occupied Blackburn and are refusing to leave until school administrators address demands for an in-person town hall with Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick, the reinstatement of affiliate trustee positions with voting power, and a meeting with student leadership on future housing plans. We also recommend that these meetings be live-streamed and/or recorded for full transparency with the university community.
We stand in full support of the following demands:
- In-person town hall meeting with President Frederick and the administration planned towards the end of October.
- Restore all affiliate trustee positions (students, faculty, and alumni) on the board of trustees with voting power.
- The president and chairman of the board suggest a meeting with student leadership to outline their "housing strategy" in order to safeguard Howard's incoming classes in the near future.
As the sit-in is entering its second day we implore other organizations on campus to voice their support for our fellow bison. We urge that students take into consideration that the Code of Conduct prohibits these demonstrations and would result in suspension. With that, we encourage our fellow bison to remain safe and avoid being caught on camera and refrain from interviews posted online or with media outlets.
In Truth and Service,
UNA-USA Howard University Executive Board 2021-2022
STRENGTHENING OUR COMMITMENT TO THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:
A WRITING SERIES
14: life below water
the fish are disappearing: west africa's fight to control its waters
By: angel
The ocean has provided coastal West Africans a steady stream of food and income for centuries. However, large, foreign sea vessels, legal and illegal, are currently prowling the West African coastline for more than their share, depleting the already scarce water for resources and endangering the citizens’ way of life. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) activity has accounted for more than one-third to one-half of catch in the region.
Exploitation of developing countries is, unfortunately, common and licensed vessels take advantage of these poor trade contracts. European vessels pay on average 8 percent of the total value of fish caught, including illegally. They also forge contracts intending to only catch tuna, but instead trawl the ocean floor, sweeping small pelagic fish like sardinella with them. Landings of sardinella declined approximately 80% between 1996 and 2016 in Ghana. Perhaps more alarming than European vessels are those from China, which only pay on average 4 percent of their total value of fish caught. A Greenpeace investigation found Chinese vessels misreport their size by at least 60% to gain cheaper licenses. These larger vessels take more than they are licensed for and don’t give local fish populations time to recover.
IUU fishing is depleting West Africa not only of resources but economic opportunity. The catches from the ocean are usually processed in overseas manufacturing plants, leaving African countries with little to show for their wealth. High demand for fish worldwide is driving heavy subsidization by foreign governments to make sure their fishers can sustain long-distance fishing. These subsidies include “capacity enhancement” which allows boats to fish for longer and more efficiently, leading to overfishing across the region. For instance, a University of British Columbia Marine Policy study concluded that developed world fishermen receive $7 in subsidies for every dollar their developing world counterpart gets. Such subsidies, along with others, make it harder for African countries to develop their own fleets to compete.
There is still a long fight to be fought to protect Africa’s waters. Fortunately, West African governments are beginning to understand and realize the need for more regulation of their waters. The NGO, Sea Shepherd, has helped governments patrol their waters of IUU fishing when they otherwise would not have the resources. Sea Shepherd has been instrumental across the region, especially in Gabon, exposing EU tuna boats that had been annually catching 60,000 tons, but only reporting 5,000 to 15,000 tons. Yet, this effort by local leaders does not excuse foreign countries from being more transparent and accountable for the illegal fishing of their fleets. To stimulate local economies dependent on the ocean, raw materials, such as fish, should stay in Africa and be processed there. Most important of all, fishing subsidies need to be curbed or reformed to ensure IUU fishing is not being intensified in already heavily exploited areas of the world. Without heavy investment and oversight to control its waters, thousands of cultures may lose their livelihoods and disappear with their fish until neither is left.
Exploitation of developing countries is, unfortunately, common and licensed vessels take advantage of these poor trade contracts. European vessels pay on average 8 percent of the total value of fish caught, including illegally. They also forge contracts intending to only catch tuna, but instead trawl the ocean floor, sweeping small pelagic fish like sardinella with them. Landings of sardinella declined approximately 80% between 1996 and 2016 in Ghana. Perhaps more alarming than European vessels are those from China, which only pay on average 4 percent of their total value of fish caught. A Greenpeace investigation found Chinese vessels misreport their size by at least 60% to gain cheaper licenses. These larger vessels take more than they are licensed for and don’t give local fish populations time to recover.
IUU fishing is depleting West Africa not only of resources but economic opportunity. The catches from the ocean are usually processed in overseas manufacturing plants, leaving African countries with little to show for their wealth. High demand for fish worldwide is driving heavy subsidization by foreign governments to make sure their fishers can sustain long-distance fishing. These subsidies include “capacity enhancement” which allows boats to fish for longer and more efficiently, leading to overfishing across the region. For instance, a University of British Columbia Marine Policy study concluded that developed world fishermen receive $7 in subsidies for every dollar their developing world counterpart gets. Such subsidies, along with others, make it harder for African countries to develop their own fleets to compete.
There is still a long fight to be fought to protect Africa’s waters. Fortunately, West African governments are beginning to understand and realize the need for more regulation of their waters. The NGO, Sea Shepherd, has helped governments patrol their waters of IUU fishing when they otherwise would not have the resources. Sea Shepherd has been instrumental across the region, especially in Gabon, exposing EU tuna boats that had been annually catching 60,000 tons, but only reporting 5,000 to 15,000 tons. Yet, this effort by local leaders does not excuse foreign countries from being more transparent and accountable for the illegal fishing of their fleets. To stimulate local economies dependent on the ocean, raw materials, such as fish, should stay in Africa and be processed there. Most important of all, fishing subsidies need to be curbed or reformed to ensure IUU fishing is not being intensified in already heavily exploited areas of the world. Without heavy investment and oversight to control its waters, thousands of cultures may lose their livelihoods and disappear with their fish until neither is left.
STRENGTHENING OUR COMMITMENT TO THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:
A WRITING SERIES
human trafficking in guyana: a magnified look at an international crisis
By: aniyah reed
Trafficking in Persons, as defined by the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime is a comprehensive description that includes everything from recruitment to the harboring of persons for exploitation. Despite being a worldwide problem that dates back thousands of years, only recently has it been adopted as a focus of global study and intervention. In 2016, the United Nations (UN) set forth 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); one of those, SDG 16, specifically aims to promote peace and inclusivity, justice, and more effective institutions, herein including the eradication of abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking. Over 100 countries provide data to the UN that showcases their commitment to effectively eliminate this problem – one of these countries is Guyana.
In Guyana, trafficking is most frequent in areas where authority presence is low, specifically in mining and hinterland communities. Hinterland communities are just outside of the coastal plains, mainly holding Guyana’s indigenous population. These people are usually both socio-economically and technologically disadvantaged, in turn making them more susceptible to being recruited and forced into labor and sex trafficking. Unfortunately, in Guyana, as well as South America overall, traffickers target poverty-stricken groups where the need for employment is high and protection is low.
Traffickers are often successful because they go into these communities and promise higher wages and better living conditions. Women are among those most vulnerable in these communities because make up the majority of Guyana’s trafficking victims. However, Guyanese women (men and children, alike) are not the only people targeted; Venezuelans who enter Guyana seeking refuge also fall victim to these ploys. Nevertheless, the Guyanese government is actively working to combat trafficking rings and support victims along the way.
The 2019 Annual Country Results report provides some insight into the government's attempts to strengthen law institutions and civil organizations that combat trafficking in persons. This report separates the findings into three strategic initiatives: policy and strategy, institutional development, and community effect. In 2019 and 2020, the Guyanese government instituted an Action Plan for the Prevention and Response to Trafficking in Persons which provided the following resources: aid and support to victims (i.e., monetary assistance, support groups, ESL classes, etc.), standard anti-trafficking procedures for law institutions, and specialized training for authorities to be better equipped to handle cases of human trafficking. Such practices, at least in part, contribute to Guyana’s maintenance of its Tier-One ranking in its efforts against human trafficking for the fourth year in a row. Notably, this ranking does not signify that the country has successfully eliminated human trafficking; rather, it signals that the country is on the right path and making adequate progress.
Yet, hardly any plan goes without a hitch. The 2019 Annual Country Results report also outlined lessons learned by the Guyanese government during its year-long effort. Obstacles ranged from unawareness of Guyanese laws to the absence of representation in legal institutions. Additionally, COVID-19 has only exacerbated pre-existing conditions, like socio-economic insecurity and mental health concerns, and has set people at higher risk of exploitation. Such situations have contributed to the rise in trafficking this past year—not just in Guyana—but globally.
Human trafficking is an immoral, inhumane, and illegal international crisis that cannot be ignored. Guyana has made strides to prevent and reduce this problem, but they cannot do it alone. Victims from Venezuela can wind up in Trinidad and Tobago and from Nigeria to Italy– traffickers are working together to make this possible, so we, as global citizens, must work beyond borders to protect those in jeopardy.
In Guyana, trafficking is most frequent in areas where authority presence is low, specifically in mining and hinterland communities. Hinterland communities are just outside of the coastal plains, mainly holding Guyana’s indigenous population. These people are usually both socio-economically and technologically disadvantaged, in turn making them more susceptible to being recruited and forced into labor and sex trafficking. Unfortunately, in Guyana, as well as South America overall, traffickers target poverty-stricken groups where the need for employment is high and protection is low.
Traffickers are often successful because they go into these communities and promise higher wages and better living conditions. Women are among those most vulnerable in these communities because make up the majority of Guyana’s trafficking victims. However, Guyanese women (men and children, alike) are not the only people targeted; Venezuelans who enter Guyana seeking refuge also fall victim to these ploys. Nevertheless, the Guyanese government is actively working to combat trafficking rings and support victims along the way.
The 2019 Annual Country Results report provides some insight into the government's attempts to strengthen law institutions and civil organizations that combat trafficking in persons. This report separates the findings into three strategic initiatives: policy and strategy, institutional development, and community effect. In 2019 and 2020, the Guyanese government instituted an Action Plan for the Prevention and Response to Trafficking in Persons which provided the following resources: aid and support to victims (i.e., monetary assistance, support groups, ESL classes, etc.), standard anti-trafficking procedures for law institutions, and specialized training for authorities to be better equipped to handle cases of human trafficking. Such practices, at least in part, contribute to Guyana’s maintenance of its Tier-One ranking in its efforts against human trafficking for the fourth year in a row. Notably, this ranking does not signify that the country has successfully eliminated human trafficking; rather, it signals that the country is on the right path and making adequate progress.
Yet, hardly any plan goes without a hitch. The 2019 Annual Country Results report also outlined lessons learned by the Guyanese government during its year-long effort. Obstacles ranged from unawareness of Guyanese laws to the absence of representation in legal institutions. Additionally, COVID-19 has only exacerbated pre-existing conditions, like socio-economic insecurity and mental health concerns, and has set people at higher risk of exploitation. Such situations have contributed to the rise in trafficking this past year—not just in Guyana—but globally.
Human trafficking is an immoral, inhumane, and illegal international crisis that cannot be ignored. Guyana has made strides to prevent and reduce this problem, but they cannot do it alone. Victims from Venezuela can wind up in Trinidad and Tobago and from Nigeria to Italy– traffickers are working together to make this possible, so we, as global citizens, must work beyond borders to protect those in jeopardy.
strengthening our commitment to the Sustainable development goals:
a writing series
Australian climate policy is not up to par, the world demands better!
By: kim austin
The topic of extreme heat is more important now than ever, given the alarming rise in global temperatures, which is just one of many recent impacts of climate change. After the whole world watched parts of Australia go up in flames between 2019 and 2020, during a series of deadly wildfires collectively known as Black Summer, Australia experienced its quietest fire season in a decade between December 2020 and February 2021. This is good news given that 2019 marked the hottest and driest year recorded in Australia since 1900 –but things aren’t looking up quite yet in regard to extreme heat and wildfires. There is a stringing connection between rising global temperatures, critical carbon dioxide (CO2) production, high surface temperatures, and wildfires.
Although the Commonwealth of Australia is working to combat extreme and increasingly common high heat, scientists warn that previous ravaging bushfires are just a prelude of what nations can expect worldwide if global temperatures continue to rise to dangerous levels. As Australian bushfires increase CO2 in the atmosphere, they are in turn bringing the planet closer to 1.5ºC of global heating, leading us down a treacherous path toward a point of no return.
Here is what we know about climate resilience plans in Australia to date. Climate Action is one of Australia’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the country is playing a part in the global challenge to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as party to the Paris Agreement. Under international climate agreements, Australia has two targets to reduce its GHG emissions: 5% below 2000 levels by 2020 (under the Kyoto Protocol) and 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2030 (under the Paris Agreement). Australia is expected to submit emissions reduction commitments known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. However, the Australian Climate Action Tracker shows Australia’s NDC is insufficient –not consistent with keeping global warming below 2°C, let alone the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal.
As of today, Australia’s overall Climate Action trend score is stagnating –increasing at less than 50% of the required rate. Individual cities’ adaptation efforts, like Melbourne’s Urban Forestry Strategy, are simply not enough on their own. Government officials need to create and implement stronger mitigation policies as well. The underperformance of state leadership in this area comes at a global price.
While Australia slacks in effective climate change policy, it calls into question how much those bushfires actually impacted the response of national leadership. What more will it take to get the ball rolling, if not a country on fire? We are out of time to debate the topic any longer. Australia must be bold in its efforts to combat climate change and take climate action now if we want to see a cooler global future together. Its citizens, ecosystems, and the international community are all depending on Australian state leadership to learn and become better global citizens.
Although the Commonwealth of Australia is working to combat extreme and increasingly common high heat, scientists warn that previous ravaging bushfires are just a prelude of what nations can expect worldwide if global temperatures continue to rise to dangerous levels. As Australian bushfires increase CO2 in the atmosphere, they are in turn bringing the planet closer to 1.5ºC of global heating, leading us down a treacherous path toward a point of no return.
Here is what we know about climate resilience plans in Australia to date. Climate Action is one of Australia’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the country is playing a part in the global challenge to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as party to the Paris Agreement. Under international climate agreements, Australia has two targets to reduce its GHG emissions: 5% below 2000 levels by 2020 (under the Kyoto Protocol) and 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2030 (under the Paris Agreement). Australia is expected to submit emissions reduction commitments known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. However, the Australian Climate Action Tracker shows Australia’s NDC is insufficient –not consistent with keeping global warming below 2°C, let alone the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal.
As of today, Australia’s overall Climate Action trend score is stagnating –increasing at less than 50% of the required rate. Individual cities’ adaptation efforts, like Melbourne’s Urban Forestry Strategy, are simply not enough on their own. Government officials need to create and implement stronger mitigation policies as well. The underperformance of state leadership in this area comes at a global price.
While Australia slacks in effective climate change policy, it calls into question how much those bushfires actually impacted the response of national leadership. What more will it take to get the ball rolling, if not a country on fire? We are out of time to debate the topic any longer. Australia must be bold in its efforts to combat climate change and take climate action now if we want to see a cooler global future together. Its citizens, ecosystems, and the international community are all depending on Australian state leadership to learn and become better global citizens.
STRENGTHENING OUR COMMITMENT TO THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:
A WRITING SERIES
The British Monarchy: Combatting Racism in Strong Institutions
By: Asha Abdelrahman Taha
A year after Prince Andrew had been forced to leave royal duties after he attempted to justify his relationship with late American financier Jeffrey Epstein, Megan Markle and Prince Harry spoke out on the royal family’s treatment of them.
Both offered allegations and chastises that eclipsed even Princess Diana's defining interview over twenty years ago. The thread of corruption within the British monarchy dates back decades and signals disruption of SDG 16, Peace and Justice within Strong Institutions.
The much-awaited interview took place amid a tumultuous feud involving Markle and Harry on one side and the British monarchy on the other. They spoke of an “invisible contract” between the royal family and the tabloids, which shape the British political sphere, influencing popular sentiment and granting their owners incredible power.
“In a depleted effort to enhance the impression that the monarchy is essential, they depend heavily on public perception,” Markle explained. “There’s a reason that these tabloids have holiday parties at the palace,” Meghan stated. “They’re hosted by the palace, the tabloids are. You know, there is a construct that’s at play there.”
This coalition’s overriding goal between the palace and the British press perpetuates and defends an illusion: that the monarchy, amid its apparent flaws, failings, and frailties, is still a necessary institution.
The blatant racism of the royal family is explicit. In the interview, Markle talked about the remarks made about the darkness of her child’s skin. She declined to reveal who in the family made the comments, as did Harry. As a result, the royal family refused their son Archie his royal status, denying their family security. “They didn’t want him to be a prince or princess, not knowing what the gender would be, which would be different from protocol, and that he wasn’t going to receive security. I just didn’t want to be alive anymore. And that was a very clear and real and frightening constant thought. And I remember how he (Harry) just cradled me.” Markle explained.
According to their supporters, their treatment embodies how an antiquated British establishment has fought back against a new, biracial woman with discriminatory connotations. Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s skeptics accuse them of seeking their roles’ grandeur without the diligence or scrutiny that comes with them. On the other hand, Markle has been a living example of how colonization works today, showing that blackness and royal institutions are incompatible.
The constant feeling of being out of place, underappreciated, and misunderstood takes its toll daily. These microaggressions have the compounding impact that affect a person's psychological health. SDG 16 can never truly be achieved if historically colonial, corrupt and controversial institutions, like the British Monarchy, do not confront their biases and sorted history. Markle was bold enough to speak on her mistreatment, but how many others will be willing to do the same? The one silver lining, however, is that this story’s arc has given the world a sobering reminder that these establishments have a long way to go, and that they are not excluded from criticism and improvements.
Both offered allegations and chastises that eclipsed even Princess Diana's defining interview over twenty years ago. The thread of corruption within the British monarchy dates back decades and signals disruption of SDG 16, Peace and Justice within Strong Institutions.
The much-awaited interview took place amid a tumultuous feud involving Markle and Harry on one side and the British monarchy on the other. They spoke of an “invisible contract” between the royal family and the tabloids, which shape the British political sphere, influencing popular sentiment and granting their owners incredible power.
“In a depleted effort to enhance the impression that the monarchy is essential, they depend heavily on public perception,” Markle explained. “There’s a reason that these tabloids have holiday parties at the palace,” Meghan stated. “They’re hosted by the palace, the tabloids are. You know, there is a construct that’s at play there.”
This coalition’s overriding goal between the palace and the British press perpetuates and defends an illusion: that the monarchy, amid its apparent flaws, failings, and frailties, is still a necessary institution.
The blatant racism of the royal family is explicit. In the interview, Markle talked about the remarks made about the darkness of her child’s skin. She declined to reveal who in the family made the comments, as did Harry. As a result, the royal family refused their son Archie his royal status, denying their family security. “They didn’t want him to be a prince or princess, not knowing what the gender would be, which would be different from protocol, and that he wasn’t going to receive security. I just didn’t want to be alive anymore. And that was a very clear and real and frightening constant thought. And I remember how he (Harry) just cradled me.” Markle explained.
According to their supporters, their treatment embodies how an antiquated British establishment has fought back against a new, biracial woman with discriminatory connotations. Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s skeptics accuse them of seeking their roles’ grandeur without the diligence or scrutiny that comes with them. On the other hand, Markle has been a living example of how colonization works today, showing that blackness and royal institutions are incompatible.
The constant feeling of being out of place, underappreciated, and misunderstood takes its toll daily. These microaggressions have the compounding impact that affect a person's psychological health. SDG 16 can never truly be achieved if historically colonial, corrupt and controversial institutions, like the British Monarchy, do not confront their biases and sorted history. Markle was bold enough to speak on her mistreatment, but how many others will be willing to do the same? The one silver lining, however, is that this story’s arc has given the world a sobering reminder that these establishments have a long way to go, and that they are not excluded from criticism and improvements.
Press Release: 07 April 2021
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, a First-Gen Dream Come True
By: Nama Taha
I’m a sophomore international affairs major and biology minor, from Saudi Arabia by way of Sudan. I am passionate about global relations, feminism, political science, and social justice. My future plans include a career path in law, diplomacy, and social advocacy.
“Adversity is a source of strength, every single time you’re tested, you flex your adversity muscles and you’ll grow stronger.”
- Ambassador Linda-Thomas Greenfield
- Ambassador Linda-Thomas Greenfield
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Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, a vibrant U.S. Diplomat, proved throughout her life that work ethic and passion will always prevail over any obstacle. She was born on November 22, 1952, in the city of Baker, Louisiana, an extremely segregated area infiltrated with hundreds of Klu Klux Klan members. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s mother only had an eighth-grade education, and her father had to withdraw from school in the third-grade to help his family. Although money was scarce in her childhood, her family was rich in love. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s parents constantly uplifted her and never attempted to stifle her ambitions nor dreams.
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Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield
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After graduating from a segregated high school, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield attended Louisiana State University, which was forced under court order to admit students of color, and although she entered a hostile environment and endured acts of blatant racism, harassment, and hatred, she was committed to completing her degree. She graduated from Louisiana State in 1974 and was later inducted into the Louisiana State University Alumni Association Hall of Distinction.
She went on to join the foreign service and become a diplomat, serving as the United States Ambassador of Liberia from 2008 to 2012, with foreign postings in Switzerland, Pakistan, Kenya, Gambia, Nigeria, and Jamaica. She then served as the Director-General of the U.S. Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources and the 18th Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs until 2017. She was recently confirmed as President Joe Biden’s U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, being only the second black woman to ever hold the position. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield has received several awards in her career, such as the Bishop John T. Walker Distinguished Humanitarian Service Award, the Warren Christopher Award for Outstanding Achievement in Global Affairs, the Presidential Meritorious Service Award, and countless others. Ambassador Linda Thomas- Greenfield is a strong leader and exceptional role model, not only to African-American women but to women globally. Her legacy exemplifies that background, ethnicity, and financial situation does not define an individual’s ability to advance and succeed.
Sudan: How the Flood of the Century Highlighted Thirty Years of Inadequate Leadership
By: Asha taha
Asha Taha is a transfer Political Science major and International Affairs minor from Sudan. I enjoy learning about international organizations, local politics and I love writing.
Over the past few years, Sudan has endured conflicts and political tensions that resulted in a revolution that ended President Omar Al-Bashir’s punitive 30-year rule. Years of tensions and inadequate leadership left Sudan vulnerable to the worst effects of climate change ranging from floods and droughts. Sudan was recently plagued with the worst floods in a century, destroying hundreds of thousands of homes, displacing more than 600,000 people in Sudan, leaving 110 people dead.
The ravaging floods have exposed the inadequacies and frailties of the government and the country’s weak infrastructure. With more than 70% of the country depending on natural resources, the floods have left them with no clean food source or water source. The lack of national development and planning by the previous government over the last 30 years has devastated an already crippled economy, which resulted in the national currency reaching 55 pounds to one US dollar, losing 40% of its value. Also, the lack of medical services left the people struggling with the current COVID crisis.
Outdated sewerage systems countrywide have allowed water from the Nile and the sewerage system to mix, resulting in several waterborne diseases resulting from the flooding. According to Aljazeera’s report, medics reported a rise in patients with parasitic diseases resulting from drinking contaminated water, watery diarrhea, cholera, and malaria. This disease spread caused many neighbors to help civilians build makeshift barriers around their homes, but others left without a choice. Some are still living in their flooded homes with virtually no government support with no place to go.
Additionally, the International Criminal Court’s indictments against Sudan’s former President Bashir for human rights violations in Darfur left Sudan alienated by the international community in terms of foreign aid. The recent change in leadership has provided hope for the renewal of relationships with the international community. Desperate for support and unable to control the flood’s effects, the Sudanese government received Qatar and UAE aid. Both countries, coordinating with the Red Crescent, distributed needed supplies in affected areas. Countries worldwide expressed their solidarity to the country’s new leader, Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok, including the United States, Finland, and Saudi Arabia.
Sudan’s transition from 30 years of totalitarian rule under President Bashir to Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok’s democratic practices tested Sudan’s resilience after countless lives sacrificed during the revolution. However, years of economic uncertainty and political instability have left Sudan vulnerable to climate change’s severe effects. With this leadership change and the international response to the floods, the Sudanese people remain hopeful for a better future in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The ravaging floods have exposed the inadequacies and frailties of the government and the country’s weak infrastructure. With more than 70% of the country depending on natural resources, the floods have left them with no clean food source or water source. The lack of national development and planning by the previous government over the last 30 years has devastated an already crippled economy, which resulted in the national currency reaching 55 pounds to one US dollar, losing 40% of its value. Also, the lack of medical services left the people struggling with the current COVID crisis.
Outdated sewerage systems countrywide have allowed water from the Nile and the sewerage system to mix, resulting in several waterborne diseases resulting from the flooding. According to Aljazeera’s report, medics reported a rise in patients with parasitic diseases resulting from drinking contaminated water, watery diarrhea, cholera, and malaria. This disease spread caused many neighbors to help civilians build makeshift barriers around their homes, but others left without a choice. Some are still living in their flooded homes with virtually no government support with no place to go.
Additionally, the International Criminal Court’s indictments against Sudan’s former President Bashir for human rights violations in Darfur left Sudan alienated by the international community in terms of foreign aid. The recent change in leadership has provided hope for the renewal of relationships with the international community. Desperate for support and unable to control the flood’s effects, the Sudanese government received Qatar and UAE aid. Both countries, coordinating with the Red Crescent, distributed needed supplies in affected areas. Countries worldwide expressed their solidarity to the country’s new leader, Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok, including the United States, Finland, and Saudi Arabia.
Sudan’s transition from 30 years of totalitarian rule under President Bashir to Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok’s democratic practices tested Sudan’s resilience after countless lives sacrificed during the revolution. However, years of economic uncertainty and political instability have left Sudan vulnerable to climate change’s severe effects. With this leadership change and the international response to the floods, the Sudanese people remain hopeful for a better future in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
2020 National Call-In Day: The Road to Advocacy By: Ja’Tae Joyner
Ja'Tae Joyner is a junior English major and Afro American Studies minor from Bowie, Maryland. She also runs for Howard's track and field team. Ja'Tae is studying to become an educator, and her passions include reading and learning.
In late October, Howard’s 2020 UNA Week came to an end with its National Call-In Day. And in honor of the United Nation’s 75th Anniversary, UNA-USA members participated in the initiative to help support “full U.S. funding for the UN.” Members across the country took to making phone calls to their respective Congress members, including myself. The steps were simple, Text 30644 about the specific cause I was interested in; Review the sample scripts; Call-in to my Congress members.
It was early in the morning when I decided to get a head start preparing to speak to my congressional representative. I turned to my phone and texted “EDUCATION” to the number 30644. Immediately, I received a follow-up text, arming me with information: the UN’s work in providing a quality education for all, the number of students the UN has globally accounted for before and during the pandemic, and the impact COVID-19 was playing in students’ lives that the UN intends on mending. It was a relief to have all the facts, but I was still nervous about advocating for these issues. Eventually, I turned to the sample script UNA-USA provided on their website, and after writing down some key points, I knew it was time to call.
Anxiety and over analyzation shot my nerves, and I was grappling with the phone as I fought against the sweat and shakiness of my own hands. I re-read the sample script over fifty times and still stalled for as long as I could until the coming hour. Finally, I began to dial the number to reach my “respective” members of Congress:
“Hello?” I asked.
“Hello, Capitol Switchboard-”
I hung up the phone. I know. Embarrassing. I hung up on a Capitol Switchboard?! Even now, I cannot explain why I would do such a thing. Maybe it was the fact that it was my first time reaching out to a congressional representative. Now looking back, I have to laugh. Congressmen and Congresswomen work for us. The people elect them, the actions they take are reflective and influenced by the people. Our responsibility is to guide those who we elect and who expect to represent us – whether it is a member of the UNA or a civilian living in the United States of America.
Eventually, three hours later, I called again. I got past the Capitol Switchboard on my second attempt; however, the congressional representative I asked for was not in their office at the time, so I left a message: “Hello, my name is Ja’Tae Joyner. I am a student at Howard University, a part of the Howard Chapter of the United Nations Association...” Needless to say, the call went much better than my first.
In the last two months, after joining UNA, I have been introduced to the most amazingly driven and inspiring individuals that have challenged me to think beyond what I know as far as government, leadership, and, most importantly, advocacy. Taking the time out of our day to call someone is something many of us do daily, but taking the time out of our day to talk with an elected official to share, challenge, and listen to the issues that we are most passionate about takes courage and fortitude. This experience has exposed vulnerabilities in me, but it has also shown me the steps to finding my voice and trusting that my voice holds the strength and value that I will need.
As I continue to participate in groups like UNA-USA, I know it may seem daunting as you consider joining such organizations. But, take it from a first-timer like me, the one who hung up on a Capitol Switchboard and found her way back to calling again, advocating for what you believe is a step towards being a contributing citizen. It’s a step to becoming a better you that inspires, shares, and makes the change needed in this world.
It was early in the morning when I decided to get a head start preparing to speak to my congressional representative. I turned to my phone and texted “EDUCATION” to the number 30644. Immediately, I received a follow-up text, arming me with information: the UN’s work in providing a quality education for all, the number of students the UN has globally accounted for before and during the pandemic, and the impact COVID-19 was playing in students’ lives that the UN intends on mending. It was a relief to have all the facts, but I was still nervous about advocating for these issues. Eventually, I turned to the sample script UNA-USA provided on their website, and after writing down some key points, I knew it was time to call.
Anxiety and over analyzation shot my nerves, and I was grappling with the phone as I fought against the sweat and shakiness of my own hands. I re-read the sample script over fifty times and still stalled for as long as I could until the coming hour. Finally, I began to dial the number to reach my “respective” members of Congress:
“Hello?” I asked.
“Hello, Capitol Switchboard-”
I hung up the phone. I know. Embarrassing. I hung up on a Capitol Switchboard?! Even now, I cannot explain why I would do such a thing. Maybe it was the fact that it was my first time reaching out to a congressional representative. Now looking back, I have to laugh. Congressmen and Congresswomen work for us. The people elect them, the actions they take are reflective and influenced by the people. Our responsibility is to guide those who we elect and who expect to represent us – whether it is a member of the UNA or a civilian living in the United States of America.
Eventually, three hours later, I called again. I got past the Capitol Switchboard on my second attempt; however, the congressional representative I asked for was not in their office at the time, so I left a message: “Hello, my name is Ja’Tae Joyner. I am a student at Howard University, a part of the Howard Chapter of the United Nations Association...” Needless to say, the call went much better than my first.
In the last two months, after joining UNA, I have been introduced to the most amazingly driven and inspiring individuals that have challenged me to think beyond what I know as far as government, leadership, and, most importantly, advocacy. Taking the time out of our day to call someone is something many of us do daily, but taking the time out of our day to talk with an elected official to share, challenge, and listen to the issues that we are most passionate about takes courage and fortitude. This experience has exposed vulnerabilities in me, but it has also shown me the steps to finding my voice and trusting that my voice holds the strength and value that I will need.
As I continue to participate in groups like UNA-USA, I know it may seem daunting as you consider joining such organizations. But, take it from a first-timer like me, the one who hung up on a Capitol Switchboard and found her way back to calling again, advocating for what you believe is a step towards being a contributing citizen. It’s a step to becoming a better you that inspires, shares, and makes the change needed in this world.
The 2020 Election’s Effect on Sustainable Development
By: Angel Bryant
Angel Bryant is a freshman international affairs major and sociology minor from Jacksonville, Florida. She is passionate about education, foreign affairs, and writing.
The highly contentious U.S. election of 2020 is proving to take the country on different paths to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) deadline of 2030. Where do the four presidential candidates stand on two critical goals at the forefront of this election?
Goal 2: Quality Education
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, K-12 education and higher education are under a microscope. American college students are starting to question the necessity of education, as most systems move completely online for no reduced price, and as student debt continues to grow. K-12 students continue to receive varied education across zip-code and racial lines. How will the candidates advance the educational system?
Donald Trump (R): President Trump implemented the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), signed by President Obama on December 10, 2015, that requires—for the first time—that all students be taught on the same high standard, promotes accountability for lowest-performing schools, and helps invest in local innovations for neighborhoods. The Trump Administration also implemented year-round Pell grants and modernized the way FSA offers services and student loans. Through a new Executive Order, President Trump established the 1776 Commission to promote patriotic education in schools and promote a version of American history that does not “paint America as a systemically racist country.”
Joe Biden (D): Vice President Biden put forth five education goals:
Jo Jorgensen (L): Jorgensen, the Libertarian candidate, says the Department of Education has failed. Jorgensen plans to eliminate the Department of Education and return education control to parents, teachers, and students. “One-size-fits-all federal government solutions are never going to work,” says her website. Jorgensen notes that schools remain largely segregated 60 years after Brown v. Board of Education. Funding varied among districts, often on racial lines. She wants an “education marketplace that provides parents of all backgrounds the opportunity to choose from among cyber schools, parochial schools, private schools, homeschooling” and other options regardless of zip code. She considers the federal government’s student loan program predatory. She promises to immediately work with Congress to erase student debt and get the government out of enabling young people’s debt-enslavement.
Howie Hawkins (G): Hawkins, the Green party candidate, plans to return educational policy decisions to teachers and parents through locally elected school boards. He vows to end charter school privatization and expansion and high-stakes testing. To tackle student loan debt, Hawkins would “establish a progressively graduated repayment program of 10% of income above the poverty line for 20 years after leaving school.” For public institutions, he supports free tuition. He would expand the Pell Grant program to cover non-tuition and fee costs for private and public institutions and other standard students and living expenses.
Goal 13: Climate Action
The scientific community has stated climate action must happen within the next decade, or the Earth will suffer dire consequences.
Donald Trump (R): President Trump’s administration rescinded President Obama’s Clean Power Plan and instead proposed the Affordable Clean Energy Rule. His administration has aggressively increased exports of energy resources to the global market and provided the infrastructure needed to “unleash oil and gas production” in the U.S. The administration has primarily rescinded Obama-Era environmental regulations. Trump kept his campaign promise to keep Americans out of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Joe Biden (D): Vice President Biden’s climate plan vows to ensure the U.S. achieves a 100% clean energy economy and net-zero emissions no later than 2050. He will sign a series of new executive orders on day one to achieve this goal. In his first year of presidency, he will demand Congress:
Howie Hawkins (G): Hawkins says, “capitalism’s competition-driven compulsion for boundless growth is devouring nature and driving dangerous climate change.” He will replace it with ecosocialist economic democracy based on public enterprise and basic needs within ecological limits. As president, he will focus on expanding mass transit and move the deadline for net-zero emission vehicles to 2025. He proposes a budget for an ecosocialist Green New Deal to build a 100% clean renewable energy system by 2030.
Election Day
With an unprecedented amount of mail-in ballots cast in this election, the American people should not expect results until a couple of days later or even weeks after election day. The race between Donald Trump (R) and Joe Biden (D) remains tight. It will likely come down to mail-in ballots postmarked for November 3rd but counted after Election Day in Nevada, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and North Carolina. The American people--and the world--must remain patient until these legally casted votes are counted, which is not unusual in general elections. Will the nation continue to lean towards conservative ideals in regards to education and climate action? Or will the nation reject the current administration and vote in progressive change?
Goal 2: Quality Education
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, K-12 education and higher education are under a microscope. American college students are starting to question the necessity of education, as most systems move completely online for no reduced price, and as student debt continues to grow. K-12 students continue to receive varied education across zip-code and racial lines. How will the candidates advance the educational system?
Donald Trump (R): President Trump implemented the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), signed by President Obama on December 10, 2015, that requires—for the first time—that all students be taught on the same high standard, promotes accountability for lowest-performing schools, and helps invest in local innovations for neighborhoods. The Trump Administration also implemented year-round Pell grants and modernized the way FSA offers services and student loans. Through a new Executive Order, President Trump established the 1776 Commission to promote patriotic education in schools and promote a version of American history that does not “paint America as a systemically racist country.”
Joe Biden (D): Vice President Biden put forth five education goals:
- Support our educators by giving them the pay and dignity they deserve.
- Invest in resources for our schools, so students grow into physically and emotionally healthy adults, and educators can focus on teaching.
- Ensure that zip code, parents’ income, race, or disability does not determine a child’s future.
- Provide every middle and high school student a path to a successful career.
- Start investing in our children at birth.
Jo Jorgensen (L): Jorgensen, the Libertarian candidate, says the Department of Education has failed. Jorgensen plans to eliminate the Department of Education and return education control to parents, teachers, and students. “One-size-fits-all federal government solutions are never going to work,” says her website. Jorgensen notes that schools remain largely segregated 60 years after Brown v. Board of Education. Funding varied among districts, often on racial lines. She wants an “education marketplace that provides parents of all backgrounds the opportunity to choose from among cyber schools, parochial schools, private schools, homeschooling” and other options regardless of zip code. She considers the federal government’s student loan program predatory. She promises to immediately work with Congress to erase student debt and get the government out of enabling young people’s debt-enslavement.
Howie Hawkins (G): Hawkins, the Green party candidate, plans to return educational policy decisions to teachers and parents through locally elected school boards. He vows to end charter school privatization and expansion and high-stakes testing. To tackle student loan debt, Hawkins would “establish a progressively graduated repayment program of 10% of income above the poverty line for 20 years after leaving school.” For public institutions, he supports free tuition. He would expand the Pell Grant program to cover non-tuition and fee costs for private and public institutions and other standard students and living expenses.
Goal 13: Climate Action
The scientific community has stated climate action must happen within the next decade, or the Earth will suffer dire consequences.
Donald Trump (R): President Trump’s administration rescinded President Obama’s Clean Power Plan and instead proposed the Affordable Clean Energy Rule. His administration has aggressively increased exports of energy resources to the global market and provided the infrastructure needed to “unleash oil and gas production” in the U.S. The administration has primarily rescinded Obama-Era environmental regulations. Trump kept his campaign promise to keep Americans out of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Joe Biden (D): Vice President Biden’s climate plan vows to ensure the U.S. achieves a 100% clean energy economy and net-zero emissions no later than 2050. He will sign a series of new executive orders on day one to achieve this goal. In his first year of presidency, he will demand Congress:
- To establish an enforcement mechanism that includes milestone targets no later than the end of his first term in 2025.
- To make a historic investment in clean energy and climate research and innovation.
- To incentivize the rapid deployment of clean energy innovations across the economy, especially in communities most impacted by climate change.
Howie Hawkins (G): Hawkins says, “capitalism’s competition-driven compulsion for boundless growth is devouring nature and driving dangerous climate change.” He will replace it with ecosocialist economic democracy based on public enterprise and basic needs within ecological limits. As president, he will focus on expanding mass transit and move the deadline for net-zero emission vehicles to 2025. He proposes a budget for an ecosocialist Green New Deal to build a 100% clean renewable energy system by 2030.
Election Day
With an unprecedented amount of mail-in ballots cast in this election, the American people should not expect results until a couple of days later or even weeks after election day. The race between Donald Trump (R) and Joe Biden (D) remains tight. It will likely come down to mail-in ballots postmarked for November 3rd but counted after Election Day in Nevada, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and North Carolina. The American people--and the world--must remain patient until these legally casted votes are counted, which is not unusual in general elections. Will the nation continue to lean towards conservative ideals in regards to education and climate action? Or will the nation reject the current administration and vote in progressive change?
Stepping Outside of the Howard Bubble: Advocacy on a Global Scale Desiree Parker and Semilore Olatunde
Meet the authors
Desiree Parker (she/her) is a senior Criminology major, Spanish minor, from Charlotte, North Carolina, by way of Waterbury, Connecticut. She serves as the Curriculum Coordinator for Just Us, where she develops inclusive, trauma sensitive learning for students involved with the carceral system. She is also a member of the International Youth leadership council, where she advocates for reproductive justice policies for the Global South. After graduating, Desiree will be relocating to New Orleans to do Teach For America prior to heading to law school.
Semilore Olatunde is a senior Biology Major, Economics and Chemistry minor from Lagos, Nigeria. Semilore serves as the President of The Knights Fraternity Inc. and is a member of various organizations including UNA-USA and IYLC at Advocates for Youth. His interests span public health administration, global health policy, advocacy, and social impact consulting.
International youth leadership councilThe International Youth Leadership Council (IYLC) at Advocates for Youth is a group of DC-based college students that work to advance youth sexual and reproductive health and rights in the global south. IYLC believes in using our unique opportunity as DC students to influence US foreign policy that directly harms people in other countries.
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This weekend of protests against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, a unit of the Nigerian police force known for brutalizing citizens, has brought the diaspora together once again through the struggle to protect our lives. While the blinders of Black Americans start to come down, it can be overwhelming to take on “other” issues that do not directly affect our continent. However, with this year’s homecoming theme of advocacy, I challenge our domestic community to step outside of their Howard bubble and stand with our peers across nations.
International issues are Howard issues. Howard is home to nearly 700 international students, the majority of whom hail from Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and Jamaica. Semilore Olatunde is a senior at Howard from Lagos, Nigeria. His call to action for his peers domestic to the United States was simple “It is really important for everyone to raise their voice and intervene. Call your representatives. Call your senators. Try to raise your voice and educate them as to what they can do and what they shouldn’t do”. He also spoke to the personal responsibility we all have to educate ourselves and others about the many underrepresented issues happening outside of our borders, such as female genital mutilation and international LGBTQ+ rights. Besides #EndSARS and #BLM, there are protests going on worldwide that are far too often overlooked. Currently, in Namibia, police are firing tear gas and rubber bullets, much like they did here, into crowds of protestors bringing awareness to gender-based violence. This International Day of the Girl 2020, it is crucial that we pay attention to pieces of legislation that protect Black womxn both within and outside our borders. Olatunde emphasized the role that the United States plays in the global policy sphere, as many domestic policies can affect the leadership of other countries as well as the money that is lent to them. You may see organizers pushing various bills that impact global health, reproductive justice, and womxn’s rights on International Day of the Girl, but know that the work does not stop there. Legislation to pay attention to includes the Helms Amendment of 1973, which passed as direct backlash against the Roe V. Wade decision. This amendment to the Foreign Assistance Act bars U.S. foreign aid from being used towards abortion services. Helms contributes largely to the 35 million unsafe abortions that happen annually, 97% of which occur in countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. For the first time since it was passed, new legislation has been introduced to repeal Helms. The Abortion is Healthcare Everywhere Act states that U.S. funding shall be used to provide reproductive health-care services and information, including abortion services, training, and equipment. It is easy to feel helpless when approaching crises that do not directly affect you. But global Black struggle must be met with collective Black pushback. It is within your right as an American citizen to have a say in where foreign assistance and appropriations go. For more information about the Abortion is Healthcare Everywhere Act, visit repealhelms.org. To find your representative and demand their support, visit https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative Sources “Abortion Is Health Care.” Repeal the Helms Amendent, repealhelms.org/. “Howard University International.” College Factual, 17 Sept. 2020, www.collegefactual.com/colleges/howard-university/student-life/international/. United States, Congress, Abortion Is Healthcare Everywhere. 2020 |
Oona's journey to and through UNa: September Spotlight
By Oona Nelson, President
I’ve been interested in diplomacy and international relations since high school, but never had a concrete reason why. International affairs was not taught or encouraged in my school, we learned about typical careers: business, engineering, medicine, or law. It satisfied most of the students that wanted to go into these fields, but I knew I needed something different. I did however identify with the business students; ambitious and driven, two qualities that I could relate too. I took classes like marketing, business, and economics, while participating in extracurriculars like the Future Business Leaders of America. I did not really know what interested me, but wanted to create a theme on my college application.
The idea of diplomacy did not come to me until the end of my junior year. It was a career path that I never heard of, it was so foreign, so discreet. I’ve heard of careers in the CIA but never the State Department, but I did see that they had an array of programs for college students in Washington, D.C. So, I added one school in Washington on my list, Howard University. My cousin attended at the time and would always rave about the opportunities and student life there, I never thought about attending an HBCU for my higher education, but it was in Washington, D.C. where the State Department was with all those student internships. It was the only HBCU I applied to. And the best decision of my life.
During that summer I did more research on my prospective career and college choices. I was always very calculated in my approach, needing to know what I could possibly get myself into. I read articles and blogs and student reviews. I had every college website bookmarked for easy access. And the more I looked into it, the more I fell in love with Howard. My cousin talked about her school with such pride and watching her light up as I asked her specific questions grew my excitement as well. By the end of the summer I decided that I was going, if I got in, but besides that I was going.
Researching careers in diplomacy was harder. The State Department was going through a hiring freeze at the moment and I could not seem to find more information about this mysterious career. As a whole it seemed interesting, something I wanted to explore, but I couldn’t find any TV shows or documentaries, or books that gave me the information I was searching for. Could I give you the textbook definition, yes, but I knew careers were more than just a couple of sentences. The mystery intrigued me and I knew the only way to find out more was to move to Washington, D.C. and discover it for myself.
Unlike a lot of students, I knew what I wanted to do from day one of college. I had a checklist and a plan; I was going to find out everything I could about the foreign service and diplomacy. I networked with professionals and joined the right organizations to get me where I needed to be.
Back in 2017, the United Nations Association chartered a chapter on Howard University’s campus. I joined the Executive Board in December of that year as the freshman liaison. In this role, I co-collaborated with Miss Black Ambassador DC, Miss Candace Johnson, in order to organize a U.S. Department of State briefing discussing Cross-Cultural Communication. We were able to bring Howard students to the State Department to tour the newly built Diplomacy Center and expose minorities to careers in international affairs. This was also the year that my classmates and I attended the UNA Summit headquartered at the UN in NYC. I’m grateful that I, along with six other students, were able to represent Howard University in a space where we need to see more African Americans. As a sophomore, I was able to host embassy tours and networking events for the students in the organization as the Vice President. In the spring of May 2019 the former president and I were able to organize a professional panel with representatives from the State Department.
In 2019, Howard United Nations Association, became its own stand-alone chapter on Howard’s campus. We were now recognized by the Student Life and Activities Office and had access to more students and school resources. As the President of UNA for two years now, I was able to recruit a team of passionate UN advocates that helped create the chapter to what it is today. We now have a website, very active social media accounts, committees, and overall recognition with the UNA-USA community. We have partnered with other UNA chapters and have even hosted professionals and leaders within the international affairs community.
We are so excited for any member that joins UNA and welcome you to our family. If you are interested in international affairs or US-UN relations, this is the perfect organisation for you. You will learn how to advocate, write, and lead through UNA-USA. Joining this organization has been one of the best decisions of my life and I hope it is for you as well.
The idea of diplomacy did not come to me until the end of my junior year. It was a career path that I never heard of, it was so foreign, so discreet. I’ve heard of careers in the CIA but never the State Department, but I did see that they had an array of programs for college students in Washington, D.C. So, I added one school in Washington on my list, Howard University. My cousin attended at the time and would always rave about the opportunities and student life there, I never thought about attending an HBCU for my higher education, but it was in Washington, D.C. where the State Department was with all those student internships. It was the only HBCU I applied to. And the best decision of my life.
During that summer I did more research on my prospective career and college choices. I was always very calculated in my approach, needing to know what I could possibly get myself into. I read articles and blogs and student reviews. I had every college website bookmarked for easy access. And the more I looked into it, the more I fell in love with Howard. My cousin talked about her school with such pride and watching her light up as I asked her specific questions grew my excitement as well. By the end of the summer I decided that I was going, if I got in, but besides that I was going.
Researching careers in diplomacy was harder. The State Department was going through a hiring freeze at the moment and I could not seem to find more information about this mysterious career. As a whole it seemed interesting, something I wanted to explore, but I couldn’t find any TV shows or documentaries, or books that gave me the information I was searching for. Could I give you the textbook definition, yes, but I knew careers were more than just a couple of sentences. The mystery intrigued me and I knew the only way to find out more was to move to Washington, D.C. and discover it for myself.
Unlike a lot of students, I knew what I wanted to do from day one of college. I had a checklist and a plan; I was going to find out everything I could about the foreign service and diplomacy. I networked with professionals and joined the right organizations to get me where I needed to be.
Back in 2017, the United Nations Association chartered a chapter on Howard University’s campus. I joined the Executive Board in December of that year as the freshman liaison. In this role, I co-collaborated with Miss Black Ambassador DC, Miss Candace Johnson, in order to organize a U.S. Department of State briefing discussing Cross-Cultural Communication. We were able to bring Howard students to the State Department to tour the newly built Diplomacy Center and expose minorities to careers in international affairs. This was also the year that my classmates and I attended the UNA Summit headquartered at the UN in NYC. I’m grateful that I, along with six other students, were able to represent Howard University in a space where we need to see more African Americans. As a sophomore, I was able to host embassy tours and networking events for the students in the organization as the Vice President. In the spring of May 2019 the former president and I were able to organize a professional panel with representatives from the State Department.
In 2019, Howard United Nations Association, became its own stand-alone chapter on Howard’s campus. We were now recognized by the Student Life and Activities Office and had access to more students and school resources. As the President of UNA for two years now, I was able to recruit a team of passionate UN advocates that helped create the chapter to what it is today. We now have a website, very active social media accounts, committees, and overall recognition with the UNA-USA community. We have partnered with other UNA chapters and have even hosted professionals and leaders within the international affairs community.
We are so excited for any member that joins UNA and welcome you to our family. If you are interested in international affairs or US-UN relations, this is the perfect organisation for you. You will learn how to advocate, write, and lead through UNA-USA. Joining this organization has been one of the best decisions of my life and I hope it is for you as well.
Press release: 05 June 2020
Press release: 03 June 2020
podcast
Glass ceiling: African migrant mental health
By Luna Beyene
Published 02/25/2020 4:05 am
Published 02/25/2020 4:05 am
Description:
Run time: 7:01
How can we help and support our migrant friends and family on an individual scale in regards to their mental health? Now, the African diaspora is overwhelmed with trying to stay afloat and they neglect their mental health, while also perpetuating a culture of suppressed emotions. Mental health is rarely, if ever, talked about in most, if not all of African migrant communities. A sparse discourse about the subject would not help the issue. However, in African diasporas, crowdfunded community centers and volunteers do their best to serve as best they can with whatever mental health resources they may have.
Run time: 7:01
How can we help and support our migrant friends and family on an individual scale in regards to their mental health? Now, the African diaspora is overwhelmed with trying to stay afloat and they neglect their mental health, while also perpetuating a culture of suppressed emotions. Mental health is rarely, if ever, talked about in most, if not all of African migrant communities. A sparse discourse about the subject would not help the issue. However, in African diasporas, crowdfunded community centers and volunteers do their best to serve as best they can with whatever mental health resources they may have.
Photographer: Paul Wallace/Bloomberg
Trigger Warning: Death
Boko Haram kills 65 in Dolori village - Ventures Africa
Boko Haram has yet again reigned terror; this time killing 65 people and injuring 136 persons following an attack on Dalori village. It is reported that the sect invaded the village and started shooting sporadically at the villagers.
