Pricilla Vivar is currently an intern at the United Nations in New York with Good Shepherd International Justice and Peace. She majored in English with a minor in political science at Stoney Brook University – which she attended as “a proud Latina and first-generation college student”. Here, she shares something of her journey with GSIJP.
As a passionate seeker for justice, my dream of becoming an attorney is not just about practicing law—it is about being a voice for those who have been silenced.
During my internship at the UN with GSIJP, I have been immersed in global advocacy. One of the most transformative experiences was attending the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69). I had always believed that gender equality was steadily progressing, but CSW69 exposed me to the harsh realities that persist across the world.
During the session, I engaged in discussions with global leaders, activists, and civil society organizations (CSOs), all working tirelessly to advance gender equality. Yet, I was struck by how much still needs to be done. Hearing firsthand accounts of political exclusion, economic disparity, and gender-based violence in countries like Mexico, Uganda, and Germany was both eye-opening and disheartening. I realized that for millions of girls and women, fundamental rights remain out of reach, and setbacks threaten the progress we have fought so hard to achieve.
One of the most powerful lessons I learned at CSW69 was the critical role of CSOs. These organizations are more than just advocates—they are the backbone of change. I witnessed how they amplify the voices of those who are too often ignored, pushing for policies that protect and empower girls and women. Their work is essential, yet they face challenges in gaining the political space and recognition they deserve. Governments alone cannot drive meaningful change; it is the relentless efforts of civil society that keep human rights at the forefront of global discussions.
Throughout my internship, I witnessed advocacy in action—how testimonies, reports, and grassroots movements influence international policies. I worked alongside passionate individuals who dedicate their lives to justice, learning how to draft statements, engage with policymakers, and mobilize communities. I understood, more than ever, that advocacy is not just about speaking up, it is about persistence, strategy, and ensuring that no injustice goes unnoticed.
This internship was more than a learning experience; it was a call to action. I refuse to accept a world where dignity is negotiable, equality is optional, and freedom for girls and women is merely aspirational. The call from CSOs at CSW69 was that we need stronger policies, greater accountability, and more spaces for civil society to lead the charge.
As I continue my journey toward becoming an attorney, I carry with me the invaluable lessons from my experience working with Good Shepherd International Justice and Peace. I am committed to using my voice and my future legal career to advocate for those who are unheard, to push for justice in every space I enter, and to ensure that gender equality is not just a conversation but a reality. The time for action is now. We must uplift the voices of advocates, expand the influence of civil society organizations, and fight for a world where every girl and woman can live without fear, without barriers, and with limitless possibilities.
