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Empowerment of Women
International Women's Initiative Launched in Korea
Written by UPF International
Monday, July 16, 2012
Cheongpyeong, Korea - The founders of UPF, Rev. and Mrs. Sun Myung Moon called for a new era of women’s leadership for peace during an assembly hosted by the Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) in the Cheongshim Peace Center in South Korea on July 16.
The assembly highlighted the need for a body of NGO leaders whose collective wisdom and judgment can complement the deliberations of the United Nations, which is a body of government representatives and is overwhelmingly male. Such a consultative body could promote healing and peacebuilding through reconciliation, forgiveness, love and embracing people beyond boundaries of race, religion, nationality, and language.
Dr. Lan Young Moon, president of WFWPI and the Master of Ceremonies for the event, offered introductory remarks at the gathering of approximately 12,000 people. After the introduction of various distinguished guests and international representatives, Ms. Carolyn Handschin, WFWPI-Europe, gave a progress report, and Ms. Tetsuko Kuboki, WFWPI-Japan, offered welcoming remarks. “I think it is very meaningful that women of the world join hands, making a network of peace,” she said.
Since its founding 20 years ago, the Women's Federation for World Peace has carried out many educational, relief, and development programs around the world, elevating the status of women and bridging barriers of races, religions, cultures, and nationalities. Japanese volunteers have spearheaded its work in many nations.
Dr. Thomas G. Walsh, president of UPF International, said in his congratulatory remarks, “The Pacific era and the women’s era are rising together. As the UN was led by men in the Atlantic era of Theodore Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, this important women’s initiative reflects a new way of thinking.” After a video presentation, Rev. and Mrs. Moon were welcomed with floral presentations by Prof. Yeon Ah Choi, vice president of WFWPI, and Ms. Angelika Selle, WFWPI-USA.
During his keynote address, Rev. Moon said that the women’s initiative should develop new links between "governments, organizations, and individuals from the whole world." Calling women the "wheels of the engine" and "central axis in building a century of love and a peace culture," he encouraged the audience to place priority on educating about universal values, strengthening families, and serving others. After the keynote speech, he and his wife rang a gong celebrating the occasion.
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