When the UN launched the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, the world came together and agreed to work towards a more just, peaceful and equitable planet by 2030. Though we’ve made strides, it’s hard to ignore the challenges that continue to disrupt our progress towards achieving the SDGs. Today, a raging global pandemic, growing racial inequality, and democratic unrest are just some of the few unparalleled challenges that our country and planet faces. 

With a new Congress and an incoming presidential administration, we have an opportunity to tackle these challenges through a new era of American leadership. However, recent events have shown us that our democracy can be fragile, and is only as strong as the will of the people and those we elect to represent us. 

Goal #16 reminds us that representative government, accessible electoral participation and the peaceful transition of power are the pillars of strong and just institutions. Undoubtedly, these pillars have been put to the test. UNA-USA stands strongly against any attempts to undermine our democratic processes and believes that there is a need to hold our elected officials accountable to uphold the pillars of Goal #16

Unless we address the challenges of our time, the SDG framework will never be truly fulfilled and injustices will continue to jeopardize the progress we’ve made as a country and planet so far. To achieve the SDGs by 2030, we need to hold each other accountable to get everyone involved. That is why I am using my voice to share #MySDGDream. 

As a founding member of the UN, I believe that the United States can and must do better. Our democratic values have provided hope during times of darkness for many around the world. Now, the world is looking at us. 

History will recall this moment as a turning point. Understanding the importance of this moment, we must come together and use our collective voices for action. I challenge you to share your story about why the SDGs are important to you and your community. By doing so, we can all play a part in shaping the course of our history for future generations. Most importantly, by telling us your SDG dream, we can inspire others during a time when inspiration is needed the most. 

As we commemorate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., l can’t help but think of his own dream, and whether or not we’ve done enough to address the systemic challenges that he outlined in our nation’s capital 58 years ago. Dr. King’s vision for a better America and his approach to tackling injustice around the world is an important reminder during these troubling times. May we carry his legacy in our hearts and minds as we fight to protect our imperiled democracy, and seek to achieve a more just, peaceful and equitable world by 2030.