Advocacy
UNA-GP focuses our advocacy where Philadelphia’s civic energy and global urgency overlap. We select a small set of strategic topics grounded in our history and strengths — and pursue measurable action, education, and partnership.
Local Roots. Global Impact.
Issue Areas
-
Disarmament
Why we care: Philadelphia has a long peace tradition; disarmament work builds on that legacy.
What we’ll do: Local public education campaigns, municipal resolutions, partner with other organizations, faith communities and legal groups to advance norms and community safety. -
Human Rights
Why we care: Human rights safeguard dignity and justice—values rooted in both the UN Charter and Philadelphia’s enduring commitment to freedom. We advance human rights by empowering our community to apply global principles in local, meaningful ways.
What we’ll do: Support curricula, events, and youth programs that translate UN human-rights frameworks into classroom lessons and community dialogue. -
Environment & Climate Justice
Why we care: Local climate solutions have global consequences — environmental justice is a Philadelphia priority.
What we’ll do: Promote water security, urban greening, and community resilience projects tied to SDG targets. -
Rule of Law
Why we care: A functioning international justice system reinforces human rights and rule of law.
What we’ll do: Public education on international courts, legal roundtables with local bar associations, advocacy for U.S. civic support of international accountability mechanisms.
How We Work — Principles, Methods & Metrics
Principles
Community-led: priorities are set by local listening and partnership.
Evidence-based: we use research and academic partnerships.
Civic-centered: we translate global policy into local opportunities for action.
Accountable: measurable outputs and public reporting.
Methods
Education & curricula
Public events & forums
Policy memos & municipal advocacy
Coalition building & joint statements
Partnerships with other Philadelphia nonprofit institutions; schools & universities, local bar associations, civic NGOs , faith communities, UNA-USA networks, and more.
Internships, fellowships, and student projects
Success metrics:
Programs implemented (count)
Participants engaged (students, community members)
Policy outcomes (resolutions, formal adoptions)
Media mentions and public reach
Partner commitments & matched funding
Academic Impact & Collaboration
Philadelphia’s universities and research institutions are a unique strength. For our 2025 — 2030 advocacy focus, we aim to partner with higher-ed institutions to translate research into policy, create internship pipelines, and co-sponsor civic-science projects. In addition, we hope to fund joint student projects, support faculty community-engagement fellowships, and publish policy briefs.
Advocacy Summit
Each year, UNA-USA organizes an inspiring Advocacy Summit on Capitol Hill, bringing together members from across the country to engage directly with policymakers. This annual trip is a cornerstone of our advocacy efforts, giving participants the opportunity to raise awareness, share expertise, and champion the United Nations’ mission on issues ranging from human rights to sustainable development.
During the visit, participants meet with congressional offices, build relationships with legislators, and amplify the voices of our local communities on the national stage. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or new to civic engagement, the Advocacy Summit offers a unique, hands-on experience to make a real impact in shaping U.S. policy in support of global peace and cooperation.
Join us to turn your passion for international issues into action and connect with like-minded advocates dedicated to creating a more just and sustainable world.
