UNA-USA Announces The 13th Youth Observer to the UN
Washington, D.C. (August 12, 2024) — The United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) is proud to announce Oscar Armando Lopez III as the 13th Youth Observer to the United Nations. As a passionate advocate for climate action, human rights, and digital rights, Oscar brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to this prestigious role.
Oscar Lopez III, a researcher, writer, and artist from the U.S.-Mexico border town of Laredo, Texas, has dedicated his career to addressing some of the most pressing issues facing marginalized communities. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, holding a B.A. in Government and a B.B.A. in Business Honors, Oscar’s work has been deeply inspired by the challenges and opportunities present in his hometown.
Since January 2023, Oscar has served on the Advisory Board for the Born This Way Foundation, co-founded by Lady Gaga and Cynthia Bissett Germanotta, where he has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness and access to resources for underserved populations. His commitment to social impact is further evidenced by his contributions to the Laredo Food Policy Council, where he helped pass a plan to address food deserts in his community.
Oscar’s advocacy also extends to the digital realm. After learning that his hometown was recognized as the “Worst Connected City” in the United States, he has spent the past five years working to close the digital divide nationwide. His groundbreaking work as the youngest-ever Google Public Policy Fellow and his subsequent roles at Public Knowledge and the National Hispanic Media Coalition have positioned him as a leading voice in advocating for increased broadband access, digital privacy, and ethical AI.
UNA-USA’s Youth Observer to the UN program, which began in 2012, aims to bridge the gap between young Americans and the United Nations, empowering the next generation of leaders to take action on global issues. As the 13th Youth Observer, Oscar Lopez will continue this legacy, amplifying the voices of youth and ensuring that their concerns are heard on the world stage. Oscar Armando Lopez III succeeds Ose Ehianeta Arheghan.
In addition to conducting a Listening Tour across America (both virtual and in-person) to determine their priorities for their term, Oscar will be available for interviews to discuss their role as UNA-USA Youth Observer to the UN, how young Americans can support the United Nations, and the importance of having the U.S. as a leader at the UN. To coordinate an interview, please email Rachel “Rae” McCave at rmccave@unfoundation.org.
Learn more about UNA-USA’s Youth Observer program and follow Oscar as they begin their term as the UNA-USA 13th Youth Observer to the UN on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About the United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA):
The United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) is a social movement made up of more than 20,000 Americans who believe in the ability of the UN to address global challenges such as conflict, hunger, poverty, inequality, injustice, and climate change. Through its 103 community chapters and 146 campus chapters, and many members-at-large present throughout the country, UNA-USA educates, inspires, and mobilizes Americans to support a strong US-UN partnership. By activating champions in communities, colleges, and in Congress, UNA-USA ensures that the United Nations is able to work towards a more peaceful, just, and healthy planet for all people. For more information, please visit www.unausa.org.
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