In partnership with the U.S. Department of State, the San Diego Diplomacy Council brought 32 female leaders across Europe and the Western Hemisphere to San Diego to discuss how women are critical to preventing and resolving conflict, countering violent extremism and building post-conflict peace and stability. During their 4 days visit, they met with local leaders in government, defense, media, and civil society. “It gave me the strength to continue,” said Adriana Bahena, spokeswoman for the community-based NGO The Other Disappeared of Iguala. Adriana assists families with disappeared loved ones and leads advocacy efforts for missing people throughout Mexico.
The week concluded with a Global Social Hour co-hosted with the California Women’s Museum during which San Diegans and our international guests had a chance to connect and learn from each other. It was inspiring to hear strong women leaders from around the world share what they have accomplished in their home countries and how they intend on implementing new ideas after their visit to the United States. “As citizens we have an obligation to revitalize, re-energize, and constantly reinforce our society,” said Maria Camilleri Calleja, Director General at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion in Malta.
Thank you to all our local experts, community members and students who met with our prestigious women leaders: Global Immersion Project (border visit), Mari Payton at NBC 7, National Conflict Resolution Center and USD’s Kroc IPJ, Mulvaney Center and Center for Peace and Commerce, Global Immersion Project, SD Family Justice Center, CO Bauernschmidt, and USD’s Kroc IPJ, La Jolla Country Day School, President Pro Tem Barbara Bry, Congresswoman Susan Davis and the California Women’s Museum.
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