The United Nations Association of Australia (WA Div) becomes a Honorary Corporate Member of Perth Rotary Club
PERTH ROTARY CLUB INDUCTION CHARGE as read by PDG Graham Peden
Dr Sandy Chong, & President of the United Nations Association of Australia, WA Division. I believe that today the 27th August 2020 will be one of those days who as Perth Rotary we shall need to remember.
It is 75 years since the United Nations Charter was ratified by the then 5 permanent members of the security council with the new treaty at that time coming into force on October 24th 1945. Back then there were 51 countries as UN members, today there are 192 countries who are UN members. Prior to 1945 to present day, both Rotary and the United Nations have had a close, continuous and cooperative association.
It is acknowledged that since 1945 there have been many changes within the world’s communities and as a result societal challenges have continued to grow. It is on that basis that Rotary International is suggesting that Rotary, primarily Rotary Clubs and divisions of the United Nations should bond more closely and work collaboratively to solve some of the looming social issues being presented and for us to identify and arrive at solutions.
Without doubt, by us working together, we can achieve so much more and on that basis Perth Rotary has made the decision to invite your organisation: - The United Nations Association of Australia, WA’s division to become an: - Honorary Member of Perth Rotary because we believe your organisation runs parallel to the qualities, character, leadership and high standards that we as Rotarians are driven to achieve; inspired by our motto: - ‘Service above Self’ and we believe that like us, this fits in with your organisations ideals of service and your advocacy on behalf of the disadvantaged in this world.
One of the objectives of Rotary is to encourage the ideals of service in organisations that understand the importance of corporate social responsibility and on that basis, we look to foster: -
- The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service
- High ethical standards in business.
- The application of the ideal of service in personal, business & community life.
- The advancement of International understanding, goodwill & peace.
Additionally, we also encourage and advocate the Rotary Four Way Test to the things we think, say or do; The test being: -
- Is it the truth?
- Is it fair to all concerned?
- Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
- Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
While Rotary is also guided by our seven areas of focus, we acknowledge, respect and appreciate the UN’s 17 sustainable development goals. We applaud the principle of “leaving no one behind” and we as Rotarians acknowledge your explicit inclusion of people with disabilities. This also, is a component of Rotary’s philosophy.
To be more forthright, I quote a message from Grace Ramirez who wrote in the August edition of our Rotary South Pacific and Philippines Office regional bulletin the following article which has been recently passed by the Rotary International Board endorsing the following DEI Statement. (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion): -
“As a global network that strives to build a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, Rotary values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people from all backgrounds, regardless of their age, ethnicity, race, colour, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity”
“Rotary will cultivate a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture in which people from underrepresented groups have greater opportunities to participate as members and leaders”
In that respect, the timing could not be better because, I point out that currently we have President Jill as the President of Perth Rotary, we have Dr Sandy Chong as the President of UNAAWA. Going forward we have DGE Dee Buckland (District 9455) 2021/2022 and DGN Ineke Oliver 2022/2023 and to cap that we have recently been advised that Jennifer Jones is nominated as Rotary International’s first Woman President for the 2022/2023 year.
In drawing to a conclusion: -
Rotary acknowledges no distinction of race, religion, national, political or gender persuasion. All Rotarians are equal members in one fellowship; -each expected to be loyal to their citizenship and faithful to their beliefs.
Rotary also offers rich rewards of fun, friendship, and fulfilment to those who offer their own friendship and service. It also offers unique networking possibilities, including the opportunity to visit any Rotary club anywhere in the world.
Sandy, we are delighted that our two organisations are to unite in the collaborative context and work together, that the UNAAWA is affiliated with Perth Rotary through this Honorary Membership where together we can support the disadvantaged, encourage leadership, advocate equality and support the concept of ‘World Peace’ now, more than ever.
Dr Sandy Chong, we, as Perth Rotary, hold our hand out to UNAAWA in friendship, collaboration and support and that we work together for the benefit of all.
President Jill, I take great pleasure in presenting to you, not only a ‘special’ Perth Rotary Honorary Member but also the world’s newest ‘affiliate’ Rotarians and ask that you now formally welcome UNAAWA through the office of: -
Dr Sandy Chong, President of the United Nations Australia Association (WA div) ………………and greet her as a Rotarian.