Americans for UNFPA Raise $1.02 Million at Gala for the Health and Dignity of Women Everywhere

Honourees Francisca del Carmen Espinoza Ortiz, Director, Red Nacional de Casa Maternas, Nicaragua and Monira Rahman, Director, Acid Survivors Foundation, Bangladesh

09 October 2009

NEW YORK – Some 450 business and community leaders, dignitaries and philanthropists gathered last night at Gotham Hall to celebrate the 2009 Americans for UNFPA Honourees for the Health and Dignity of Women.

Five outstanding women, two from the developing world and three Americans, were honoured for their exemplary leadership and contributions to improve the lives of women in their communities.

The gala raised $1.02 million, a record for Americans for UNFPA since the inaugural event in 2006. That, coupled with restored U.S.government funding for UNFPA, offers great hope to Anika Rahman, President, Americans for UNFPA.

UNFPA Executive Director congratulates Ms. Espinoza. Photo: Americans for UNFPA

“Never before in history has there existed such a concerted and organized global movement to eradicate gender inequity,” said Anika Rahman in her opening remarks.

“Here we are in 2009—a year of deep recession—and my heart fills with pride once more because the United States has restored its commitment to UNFPA,” she continued. “Thank you for joining us and our nation's leaders as we signal to the world our renewed intention to participate in a global partnership on behalf of all women.”

Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, Executive Director, UNFPA was Honourary Chair of the event. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also took the stage to congratulate Americans for UNFPA and the 2009 Honourees.

Americans for UNFPA builds moral, political and financial support within the U.S. for the work of UNFPA.