It was quite an experience to be a volunteer at the second Nobel Women’s Initiative Conference in Antigua, May 10th – 12th. Being the only male volunteer or staff, I was a little hesitant, and certainly didn’t know what to expect. I was delightfully surprised by the warm acceptance I received and I was often moved by what I heard.
(photo- left to right – Jody Williams, Rigoberta Menchu, José Rafael Espada -VP of Guatemala, Liz Bernstein – coordinator of conference, Mairead Corrigan Maguire, Shirin Ebadi)
I cannot tell you the history or current trends or philosophy of feminism. All I know, and have been aware of over the short course of my life is that historically women have suffered tremendously by the political, cultural and social orders set up by men. I realized that these decision makers were my gender, but not my people. I was aware in the conference that I was a representative of that gender and was sensitive to be somewhat invisible and respectfully silent.
My tasks at the conference were varied and simple – finding supplies, going to the print shop to make reams of copies, setting up a display of 1000 photos, and various other “in the moment” jobs. It put me in contact with the staff of NWI and the participants. I was impressed by the professionalism, intelligence, and passionate commitment of everyone I met. I also encountered a strong open-hearted spirit dedicated to human rights everywhere, for everyone.
I gratefully had the opportunity to hear the addresses of the Nobel prize winning women – Jody Williams, USA; Shirin Ebadi, Iran; Mairead Corrigan Maguire, Ireland; and Rigoberta Menchu, Guatemala. Each, in their own style and language, expressed what everyone at the conference wanted to see happen in the world – Peace based on justice and equality. The conference invited women from all over the world who are actively working for human rights and peace.
(photo – conference venue)
Hearing some of the heart-wrenching stories of the terrible abuses and injustices dealt to women and their families triggered how I have felt much of my life about humanity. Initially I was sad, then angry and then I felt strongly resolute to continue to work to shift the consciousness of this world to compassion, communication and freedom, rather than egoism, violence and oppression.
I realized that these women want is what I have wanted and worked for all my life – a world in which everyone, e v e r y o n e, despite race, creed, social status, or politics can have the opportunity for a harmonious, happy and healthy life. A world in which our political, religious, economic, and social institutions are based on cooperation and inclusion and their policies exist to serve the people of the world, not to strip mine human resources like a commodity. I wish these women and all caring people success in their activism to create justice and equality and bring about a true and lasting peace in this world.
(photo – Rigoberta Menchu being interviewed)
Peace,
Greg
Please note – all photos taken by Judy Rand, our thanks to her.
