Geneva: 42nd session of the Human Rights Council

a dream came true today by visiting the United Nations. magically, my visit has coincided with the meeting of the Human Rights Council. I’ve spent years studying and dreaming of attending these sessions and walking through the United Nations, and to finally be here seeing where it all happens is surreal.

being in the birthplace of human rights and witnessing their evolution and dissection on the global stage fills me with a sense of purpose and hope. I’m fortunate to be staying with a lovely group of Marist and Eddie Rice interns from Australia and the UK, under the care of Neville, a true blue Marist brother who has shown me incredible kindness in just 24 hours, and makes me laugh too much.

the urgency in the meeting room today would be impossible to miss. these people are aware of the need for change, and change is demanded of member states. logistically, enduring change occurs proves extremely difficult. but as the high commissioner stressed today, rights violations can be avoided by thoughtful and meaningful action.

my head is buzzing and I’m tired, so I’ll sleep now. content and grateful << x