Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s speech at the 18th International Human Rights Summit emphasized the vital role of youth in advocating for human rights and addressing global challenges. She celebrated their courage, called for their inclusion in decision-making, and drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s legacy, urging the next generation to lead with grit and hope while working towards a just world.
At the heart of the 18th International Human Rights Summit, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, delivered a poignant address that echoed the aspirations and dreams of the youth gathered in New York. Opening her speech on July 18, 2024, with a warm greeting that reverberated through the hall, she expressed her profound honor at being among the next generation of leaders passionate about human rights and advocacy. With gratitude, she acknowledged Ambassador Dioniso da Costa Babo Soares for spearheading the summit and celebrated Dr. Mary Shuttleworth for her inspirational contributions, drawing on her own experiences of growing up in the segregated South. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield paid homage to the resilience and courage of youth activists from around the globe, ranging from those enduring hardships in Afghanistan and Venezuela to the brave spirits in Sudan and Ukraine standing firm against oppression. Her heart swelled with respect for young leaders like Joseph Kim and Praise Joo, who escaped the clutches of tyranny and are bravely shining a light on the truths of the North Korean regime. Recalling the wisdom of Nelson Mandela, she reminded the attendees of their immense potential: “Whenever I am with energetic young people, I feel like a recharged battery.” She encouraged the youth not only to dream but to act, acknowledging that the fight for justice is often fraught with challenges yet requires unwavering hope, grit, and collaboration. As the speech unfolded, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield urged the young leaders to inject their ideas and energy into the United Nations. “We need more young people in the rooms where decisions get made,” she emphasized, advocating for the necessity of fresh perspectives to tackle 21st-century issues such as climate change and systemic inequality. She passionately discussed how this generation has much to offer, not only in terms of advocacy and action but in their unique approaches to organizing and fostering inclusivity. The ambassador’s call to action resonated strongly, urging young leaders to keep their voices amplified, question prevailing norms, and build enduring relationships. The future, she told them, rests on their shoulders, but she confirmed that there is a collective belief in their abilities.
The 18th International Human Rights Summit serves as a platform for global youth leaders to come together to discuss pressing human rights issues and advocate for social justice. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s address at this summit aimed to inspire and empower young activists from varying backgrounds, emphasizing their vital role in shaping a better world. Her reflections on past struggles for civil rights intersected with present-day movements, showcasing the continuous fight for basic human dignity and freedom. As a prominent leader within the UN, her words carried weight in encouraging youth engagement in global policies and decision-making, particularly concerning contemporary challenges like climate change and turmoil in various nations.
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s address ignited a spark of motivation among the youth at the summit, reminding them that their voices matter in the corridors of power. By acknowledging the challenges they face and recognizing their resilience as key to enacting change, she effectively underscored the importance of youth in advocating for human rights. Her call for increased representation of young people in decision-making spaces stands as a crucial reminder that the future depends on their involvement and innovation, fostering a world built on justice, equality, and hope.
Original Source: usun.usmission.gov
