Currents March 2023

Before 2020, March had become a time of planning and excitement as we prepared for and attended the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York City. Just like the rest of the world, three years ago we were canceling flights after weeks of prayer and consideration on whether the events would be held, and if they were, we wondered if we should we risk going. The UN did end up canceling the gathering that year, then restricted attendance in the following two years with a hybrid format. This year, we are excited to be back to going in person because while the virtual meetings can be enlightening and help to share information and ideas, a large part of why we go is to meet with individuals and build bridges of understanding, recruit women who are looking for a way to make a change in their communities, and to stand in uncomfortable places as a voice for faith, family, and motherhood.

We will also be presenting at a parallel event as an officially recognized ECOSOC-accredited non-governmental organization (NGO). We would love for you to join in! If you’re in the New York City area, we will be presenting Thursday, March 9 at 8:30 am EST in the Salvation Army Auditorium at 221 E. 52nd St. If you can’t attend in person, you can join via Zoom HERE.

In March, we focus on our tenet, “We work in partnership with our global sisters to create generative solutions.” We do believe that this world is in need of every point of light that each individual shines, and that together “[w]e can illuminate a better path for the rising generation.” Our authors this month have shared how this can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Shelli shares how individuals and neighbors can connect and look after each other. Kaylee recalls volunteering with refugees and bonding in spite of language and tradition differences. Emily relays how the newly formed Ukraine WAVE has been gratefully using donations as they continue to work and reach out in love to bring light in this time of darkness, while Norma reports on the continued success, but also the need of the Hope Uganda WAVE. As I look back at my previous CSW experiences, I am thankful for the growth that I have seen in myself, our organization, and other women I know and love as we continue to work together.

If you feel inclined to donate to our efforts at CSW, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, or to help the young mothers in Uganda have self-reliance with a sewing machine, or any of the other projects our organization or WAVES are doing, you can Venmo @bigoceanwomen and note what you would like to support. Together we can do so much more than we can on our own.