“Kia Ora to all of you,” (which is a New Zealand Maori greeting ). Twenty-one of our members plus several observers from U.S.A. attended the 23rd PPSEAWA International Conference, “Women Making a Difference Through Peace,” Manukau City, New Zealand, March 21-27, 2007. As head of delegation, I was very proud of our large delegation wearing our national colors of red, white and blue. It is always so impressive to see our PPSEAWA sisters in their national attire as well. The conference is a wonderful opportunity to make and renew friendships.
Globalization filled the atmosphere of the conference, bringing with it an unprecedented opportunity for promoting world peace through PPSEAWA member countries. The conference focused on the UN Millennium Development Goals to guide us on how we can make a difference. We were empowered by speakers, panel presentations and discussion groups. Our many thanks to Jenny Kendall, Conference Chairperson and President of PPSEAWA NZ, Viopapa Annandale, PPSEAWA International President and those who participated and presented the conference.
Keep in mind the United Nations International Day of Peace held on 21st of September each year. Does your chapter have a program or project on “peace?” We can help our community by a language of peace, positive peace attitudes and working on a culture of peace. Some suggestions for peace programs in schools may be in art, sports or music.
Norma Wells, Membership Chair, is doing an excellent job, but we need to bring in some fresh new faces for membership. I urge you all to invite a prospective member to your chapter functions.
About ten of us from PPSEAWA USA will attend the Annual DPI/NGO 60th Annual Conference, “Climate Change: How It Impacts Us All,” United Nations Headquarters, New York, September 5-7, 2007.
PPSEAWA USA elections will take place on September 7th at our Annual General Membership Meeting, 10:45 a.m., UN Church Center and followed by the Annual Luncheon and Scholarship Fund Raiser at the United Nations. If possible, I hope many of you will participate in these events. The Fall Board Meeting will also take place on the same day.