A statement from Global Philadelphia Association

Our city and our nation have spent the past weeks mourning the senseless and tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Aubery and countless other victims of police brutality and the systemic racism that exists. This great sadness, frustration and anger has highlighted that change is necessary to address the inequalities that exist in our society economically and in terms of access and opportunity.

Our mission at GPA is to foster respect and understanding among all communities, regardless of race, color, or background. We share UNESCO’s mission to promote a stronger global understanding by uplifting the culture of our shared humanity. This shared commitment is consistently demonstrated through GPA’s programs and partnerships. 

Our most recent project includes the promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals created by the United Nations. The Sustainable Development Goals are the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice. In particular we shed the light on the SDG #10 Reduced Inequalities - reducing inequalities with and among countries and SDG #16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. We have already begun to translate the Sustainable Development Goals into tangible achievements with two new murals dedicated to Gender Equality and Quality Education.  These murals are only the first of many projects that will affirm GPA’s commitment to the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals.  

We sincerely believe that we all need to embrace a greater understanding among our diverse communities. We also realize that we are at an inflection point where more action needs to be taken to support justice, equality, and opportunity in our society for all underrepresented minorities. We cannot thrive in a diverse world unless we honor our own diversity and celebrate our distinct heritages. More than ever, that means supporting our Black brothers and sisters, their rights, their education, their businesses, and their very lives.

Zabeth Teelucksingh
Executive Director

Rob J McNeill
Board Chair

Global Philadelphia Association
Two Logan Square
100-120 N 18th St., Suite 530
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 215-563-2482
[email protected]