Making Waves with Model UN

Last month eleven of our RKYHS students were in Stamford, CT, for the 21st Yeshiva University National Model United Nations competition, which is a student-run simulation of the workings of the real United Nations. The event hosted 47 high schools and more than 475 students!

The aim of the program is to allow students to experience and learn about international diplomacy by playing the roles of real United Nations delegates, representing a variety of views -- often ones with which the students may or may not agree. Each of the students must research their country's position, adding both to their knowledge of world affairs and to their appreciation of the importance of preparation and critical evaluation.

One of our students, Edyt Dickstein, served on a model of the United Nations High Commission on Refugees (UNHCR) with other students from the United States, Canada, and Brazil. One of the resolutions that she wrote dealt with Eritrean youth who flee to the neighboring country of Sunday in order to escape conscription and human rights violations. Another resolution addressed the Palestinian refugees and their future. We're proud to note that both of these resolutions passed in committee, and Edyt won the Honorable Mention, which is the award given to the second-place speaker.

For more photos, visit the YUNMUN XXI photo album on Flickr and be sure to let us know if you or one of your children/students are in the photographs!