UN Dialogue: Role of Traditional Leaders - countering hate speech and fostering peace

It was an honour to participate in the UN Dialogue last week, a 'Global Meeting on the Role of Traditional Leaders and Actors on Countering Hate Speech and Fostering Peaceful and Just Societies.'

Once again we are reminded that when First Nations' people come together to share learnings and build relationships, it's a super power.

Our Director Lauren Ganley and CEO Steph Harvey were sponsored to attend the Dialogue which will be developed into a report released by the UN Secretary General in 2024. They participated in discussions on the importance of recognising and visibly supporting the legitimacy of traditional knowledges, and locally led solutions .

What are Traditional Leaders from around the globe saying?

Traditional Leaders from around the world discussed challenging topics such as racism and hate speech. There were deep discussions on developing inclusive strategic action and communication on climate change, genocide, advocacy and accountability. It was an incredible experience listening and learning to the insights of global First Nations’ leaders on human rights topics. Some of the insights are shared in the video below.

Top row: CEO Stephanie Harvey with Algonquin Elders Grandmother Marie-Josee and Grandfather Dominique; Stephanie with Dr Ayunifor Kingsly Yunisha, Cameroon; Stephanie with Elder Maina Mukia, Secretary General Council of Elders, Kenya.

Community First Development is fostering international relationships and collaborations between First Nations’ people in Australia, in our region and globally.