Dr. Soraya Fallah talks about UNA-USA San Fernando Valley Chapter History

 

UNA-USA San Fernando Valley Chapter History

Dr. Soraya Fallah & Ginny Hatfield,

June 2026

The UNA-USA San Fernando Valley Chapter, proudly known as "America's First Chapter," has advanced the principles and values of the United Nations through education, advocacy, humanitarian service, and community engagement for generations. Our chapter has served as a bridge between global issues and local action, bringing together diplomats, journalists, educators, human rights advocates, elected officials, students, and community leaders to promote peace, justice, human rights, sustainable development, and international cooperation.

Our rich history has been shaped by extraordinary leaders, including Past Presidents Lyn Harris Hicks, Dorothy Boberg, and actress and humanitarian Marsha Hunt. Lyn Harris Hicks carried a unique connection to the founding of the United Nations through her mother, one of America's earliest female delegates to the UN. Together, Lyn and Dorothy dedicated decades of service to advancing the mission of the United Nations in our community. Marsha Hunt devoted her life to humanitarian causes, refugee resettlement, and human rights advocacy, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire our chapter today.

Building upon this strong foundation, our chapter has become a respected forum for dialogue, education, and action on some of the world's most pressing challenges. Under the leadership of President David Tuckman, Co-President and Programming Chair Ginny Hatfield, and Co-President and Advocacy Chair Dr. Soraya Fallah, the chapter has continued to expand its impact through public forums, educational programs, webinars, advocacy campaigns, and community partnerships addressing a wide range of issues aligned with the United Nations Charter and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Human rights have remained central to our work. Under the leadership of Ginny Hatfield and Dr. Soraya Fallah, the chapter expanded its focus on global human rights, women's rights, and the protection of vulnerable populations. Programs have highlighted the experiences of courageous women advocating for freedom, equality, and dignity in Iran and throughout the world, including discussions on the Woman, Life, Freedom movement and the critical role of women in peacebuilding, democracy, and social justice. The chapter has also hosted observances of International Women's Day and Human Rights Day, creating opportunities for education, dialogue, and advocacy.

The chapter has organized programs focused on refugee protection, migration, and humanitarian response, reflecting the UN's commitment to supporting displaced populations worldwide. We have educated our community about refugee resettlement, asylum issues, and the humanitarian needs of those fleeing war, persecution, and natural disasters. Our programs have highlighted the work of UN agencies, international NGOs, and community organizations serving refugees and displaced persons.

Among our distinguished speakers was Voice of America journalist Sirwan Kajjo, author of Nothing But Soot, who shared firsthand accounts of the devastating earthquakes in Syria and Türkiye and their impact on women, children, refugees, and vulnerable communities. His presentation highlighted the vital humanitarian efforts of UN agencies, the Kurdish Red Cross (Heyva Sor), the International Red Cross, and other organizations working to provide relief and recovery assistance.

The chapter has also educated the public on international crises and humanitarian emergencies, including the war in Ukraine and its impact on civilians. Through expert speakers and educational programs, we have explored the work of UN agencies and humanitarian organizations responding to conflict, displacement, and reconstruction efforts around the world.

Our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals has been reflected in programs addressing food insecurity, poverty, health equity, environmental sustainability, climate action, and community resilience. Through United Nations Day celebrations, Earth Day observances, educational forums, and community partnerships, we have connected global challenges to local solutions and inspired meaningful civic engagement.

The chapter has also championed innovative discussions on animal welfare and environmental stewardship through programs such as Animal Rights Are Human Rights, recognizing the interconnected relationship between human well-being, environmental sustainability, and ethical responsibility.

Partnerships have been an important part of our success. We have collaborated with local nonprofits, humanitarian organizations, educational institutions, and community leaders to promote disaster preparedness, humanitarian relief, civic engagement, and public awareness of international issues. Programs on food insecurity, disaster response, and community resilience have helped connect our local community to global solutions.

Advocacy remains at the heart of our mission. Through engagement with members of Congress, participation in UNA-USA national advocacy initiatives, and collaboration with the Southern California Regional Council, our chapter has advocated for strong U.S.-UN engagement, human rights, refugee protection, gender equality, sustainable development, and international cooperation. Ginny Hatfield, former Chair of the UNA-USA Southern California Regional Council of Organizations, has played a significant role in strengthening the chapter's advocacy efforts and regional partnerships.

Our Young Professionals and emerging leaders continue to strengthen the chapter by bringing new perspectives, energy, and innovation to our mission. Through educational events, advocacy initiatives, and community outreach, they are helping to inspire the next generation of global citizens and UN supporters.

What has sustained the San Fernando Valley Chapter throughout its distinguished history is our unwavering commitment to educating, inspiring, and mobilizing our community in support of the United Nations and its ideals. We honor the leaders who built this chapter, celebrate the members who carry its mission forward today, and remain dedicated to advancing peace, human dignity, equality, and sustainable development. Proud of our past, committed to the present, and optimistic about the future, we continue to serve as a strong voice for the United Nations and its mission in our community and beyond.

Connect With Us

Learn more about our programs, advocacy initiatives, educational events, and community activities by following us online:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnaUsaSanFernandoValleyChapter/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unasfv195

• UNA-USA San Fernando Valley Chapter: https://unausa.org/chapter/sanfernando/

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