On Saturday, October 2, two sixth grade students, Duncan Bierne and Quinn Clark, took part in the Global Leadership Conference sponsored by the United Nations Association of Greater Boston. This activity was a Model UN event, held virtually. We explored the issue of the internet as a human right. Duncan and Quinn were assigned countries to represent in UN-style debate and negotiation. They worked to delve into the issues around this topic and to explore solutions. There were about 130 middle school students at the event, held in conjunction with the MUN club Suffolk University. There were students from about 15 states and 8 countries.
Before jumping into the work, we had the opportunity to hear comments from Marvin Venay, Director of Advocacy at the Boston-based non-profit organization, Tech Goes Home (TGH). They are dedicated to addressing digital inequities that pose a barrier to opportunity and success for students, workers, and families across Greater Boston. TGH believes that access to the internet, devices, and digital skills training is critical to ending entrenched inequities. It was invigorating to hear Mr. Venay’s comments to set the stage for the conference. He praised students for modeling the collaboration critical for solving world problems.
Quinn and Duncan were first-time Model UN participants. Quinn earned recognition in his particular committee group for being a particularly effective delegate. Both Duncan and Quinn were courageous and engaged about experiencing this virtual conference. Quinn specialized in crafting resolutions, and Duncan was a leader in making sure everyone in his group was heard. They are dedicated to learning about the world and gaining confidence in talking about important ideas in a public setting. Our MUN club is looking forward to another conference coming up on November 21.
