Commission on the Status of Women NY 2007

Background

From the 23^rd of February until the 9^th of March, the United Nations was host for The Working Group on Women and the CSW. This is a permanent commission under the UN, which purpose is to look at the status of women as it develops, for better and for worse!

Bahá’í International Community in New York, has status as a Permanent NGO and is represented at the UN. In connection with this year’s CSW, the National Assemblies of the Bahá’ís throughout the world were asked to send a representative to the 51^st Session of the Commission on the Status on Women.

After it was decided that I should represent Greenland at the CSW, Steen and I decided that it would be the perfect excuse to visit with my family at the same time.

Copenhagen

I spent two days in Copenhagen before leaving for the U.S. I spent the time at Jørn and Sif’s home and enjoyed two wonderful days with them. I also met my Turkish friend’s family in Rødøvre. Aykut and Pinar’s family welcomed me into their homes and I found space in my heart for a new family!

Austin

Grace and Mark were so kind as to let me stay at their home in Austin. I cannot describe how wonderful it was to see Mama, Grace, Mark, Amanda, Curtis and Natascha together in Austin. The weather was perfect and the company wonderful. Grace had off one of the days and Mama, Grace and I had a wonderful time together. Mark, Mama and I had an afternoon together also in the city. That was fun too.

On Ash Wednesday we went to Mass together and that was very wonderful, since I haven’t been to Ash Wednesday Mass for many years. It was beautiful and the sermon was wonderful.

The 5 days in Austin passed quickly and it was a little sad to have to say goodbye to all of them on Friday the 23^rd of February 2007.

New York

My arrival in New York was wonderful with fresh cold air and sunshine. The CSW conference was a fantastic experience and the people that I meet were unbelievable. I truly enjoyed talking to the women from all over the world.

I also enjoyed the luxury of talking to my Tio Lester almost every day. I talked to Tia Ana once and to her answering machine several times.

The last five days, I spent in the fantastic company of my Cousins Marvin and Lisa (Marvin’s wonderful wife) We had a great time together and I felt like it was only yesterday we had been together last time, but in fact, it had been over 20 years ago.

We were out eating at different restaurants, we went out and heard Jazz and generally had a good time. Marvin and I took the time to catch up on family and friends. What a treat! Time flew and before I knew it, the three weeks were gone and I was on my way back to Greenland.

Thank you

It was wonderful to have time to see all of my family. I would like to thank you all for you love, your support, and your hospitality. It was wonderful to be with you and to feel welcome.

Love to all of you

Ruthi