Geneva

Earlier this year, we received a special invitation to Geneva to participate in the United Nations Durban Review Conference, the follow-up to the World Conference Against Racism held in Durban, South Africa in 2001. We eagerly accepted and added Geneva to the 2009 World Tour itinerary. Several nations decided to boycott the conference due to political tensions and disagreements with the general program. But, as an organization that works with all people, regardless of belief or practice, we felt our universal message should not be withheld from any forum.

We attended meetings in the general assembly and were also able to see many interesting side events. There were many human rights groups at the event and we were able to connect with them and make new friendships, which will help bring YHRI to new audiences. We also met with many high-level officials and were able to pass out our materials to people who have the power to make major changes in their countries. It was an exciting environment at the conference and also a wonderful time to be in Geneva. The spring weather was exquisite and the city was bubbling with life.

Below are a few photos of some youth volunteers and a video from a performance given at the conference by a multiracial dance group from South Africa called the Surialanga Dance Company. The particular dance in the video is a South African gumboot dance combined with traditional Indian dance styles. Very fitting for the conference!