The Calgary Branch of the United Nations Association in Canada is holding the United Nations Day celebration on Sat., Oct. 19. The celebration will unite the Calgary community in pursuing goals like world peace, human rights, equitable and sustainable development, and the elimination of poverty.
“The first purpose is to increase Calgarians’ awareness not only of the United Nations, but of the UN in Canada and more specifically in Calgary,” said Michael Gretton, UNAC Program Committee Chair. “Secondly, we thought it was important to have an event to celebrate UN Day and showcase what’s going on in our own community.”
This year’s UNAC theme is: A better world starts here.
“When people hear ‘UN’ they think of something out in the world someplace, but it starts here, it all starts at home,” said Gretton.
Exhibitors will include Canadian Blood Services, Hospice Calgary, and the Irwin School of Irish Dance. UNAC in Calgary also wants to involve its youth.
“One of our strategic focuses is youth,” said Gretton. “Many exhibitors are working with youth. We’ve also invited students from the public school board to attend.”
A focus this year will be special guest Bruce Kirkby. Kirkby was the photographer for a Canadian expedition to Mt. Everest, as well as one of the first westerners in 50 years to cross the Arabian Desert by camel.
“We wanted to invite someone who has demonstrated his commitment to adventure and his commitment to students,” Gretton stated.
The UNAC is open to any individual interested. The UN Day celebration will be held Oct. 19 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Devonian Gardens, Level 4 in Toronto Dominion Square at 317-7 Ave. SW Admission is free.