Making Our Voices Heard

April is off to a powerful start with an incredible opportunity to advocate for international basic education programs before the House of Representatives. This moment was pivotal for GCE-US and our community, helping to elevate the importance of these initiatives on a national stage (see more below!).

And the momentum doesn’t stop here. As we gear up for this year’s Global Action Week for Education (GAWE), we’re ready to amplify our impact even further. Organized annually by the GCE Global Secretariat in Johannesburg, South Africa, GAWE unites education advocates worldwide to champion a key area of the Education For All agenda. This year’s GAWE, taking place from April 28 to May 5, will focus on Education in Emergencies—a crucial issue highlighted by the powerful slogan: "Education Saves Lives: Protect Education in Emergencies!"

Stay tuned to our social media channels for updates and ways to get involved. Together, our voices will make a difference as we continue advocating for the rights and futures of children and young people across the globe.

Sincerely,

Giulia McPherson
Executive Director

GCE-US Testifies on Capitol Hill

On April 2, GCE-US Executive Director Giulia McPherson testified before the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State and Related Programs. In her testimony, she highlighted the legacy of Chairwoman Nita Lowey who served as the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee and urged the Subcommittee to recognize the important role that investments in global education play in the strength, security, and prosperity of the United States. 

Read her full testimony at the link below.

Become a GCE-US Youth Advocate

The GCE-US Youth Engagement Committee is recruiting youth advocates to champion access to a quality education for all young people! Selected youth advocates will: 

• Participate in three virtual advocacy training sessions — including an Advocacy 101 session   
• Meet with representatives on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 for Advocacy Day
• Serve as official GCE Youth Advocates in congressional constituent meetings 
• Join the GCE youth alumni community with access to unique events and opportunities
• Gain access to networking and mentorship opportunities 

Interested youth should apply here and reach out to our Senior Fellow with any questions. Please help encourage stellar youth advocates to apply for this opportunity!

Application Deadline is April 14, 2025.

Member Spotlight: Education for All Coalition 

The Education for All Coalition (EFAC) works both inside the United States and internationally to advocate for the protection of basic human rights, including access to basic education, migration and resilience education, and peacebuilding for children and youth. EFAC's programs are culturally sensitive, tailored to need, and focused on play-based curricula with the belief that all children should have the opportunity to achieve their greatest potential in a safe and healthy environment. 

EFAC believes strongly in collaboration, is a partner with multiple advocacy organizations, and engages with a multitude of education, research and service NGOs to influence policies and to be a force multiplier and ready resource in situations requiring education, health and environmental solutions. EFAC engages effectively with the United Nations Department of Global Communication, UNHCR, UNESCO and UNICEF. They also work with governments, non-governmental organizations, corporate entities, and educators to facilitate improvements in leadership, strategy, policies, and corporate social responsibility during both conflict and peace.

Learn more below or in the recently published book written by EFAC Founder & CEO, Rose Cardarelli: Children and the Climate Migration Crisis: A Casebook for Global Climate Action in Practice and Policy. 

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