An Invitation from the Governor General

Delegates, Advisors, and Distinguished Guests,

My name is Shy Brickler and I am the Governor General of the California Model United Nations (CALMUN) Conferences.  I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to the 2009 CALMUN Spring Conference.  Our theme for this year is, “Protecting the Future:  Ensuring the Rights of the Child.” 

Our focus has changed from the world community as a whole to the needs of the children.  How better to address the future than to identify the issues facing children and adolescents specifically.  With committees such as the International Labor Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees dealing with issues such as these, I am certain each one of us will be affected by the discussion.  I am excited to see what new ideas will come of our time together!

Some of the same challenges facing our youth today can be found throughout history:  children are at war; schooling and education is not a priority; and hunger and disease are rampant throughout the world.  And yet, despite all of the advances that have been made, not much has changed for children.  Children continue to be abducted, trafficked, and enslaved, threatening not only their safety, but also their overall well being.  The needs of millions of children are neglected, the number of young people with HIV/AIDS is staggering, and education provided is minimal. 

I hope you will join me on Saturday, March 7, 2009, to make a difference.  There is still so much to do so that these children are given the opportunities they deserve. In your committee, in your caucusing bloc, be the one to create that change.

If you have any questions or if there is anything I can do to help in your preparation, please contact me.  I look forward to seeing you at the Knott's Berry Farm Resort. 

Sincerely,

Shy Brickler

Governor General

CALMUN Conferences