Celebrating Herbie Hancock and UNESCO on Capitol Hill

"I never dreamed I would be a Goodwill Ambassador, and for UNESCO. Perfect organization. It is apolitical and it's about education, science and culture. I mean that is what I live. That is what UNESCO is really about; it's all about bringing human beings together with one common goal, which is
to move human kind forward."

When Grammy award-winning jazz legend Herbie Hancock spoke these eloquent words on Capitol Hill this week, it hushed the room. When his expert fingers took to the keys of the grand piano, not a single one of the members of Congress, congressional staff or fans in attendance was left without chills.

By joining the Better World Campaign at our Capitol Hill reception, Mr. Hancock not only showcased his remarkable talents and contributions to American music and culture, but also spotlighted the importance of U.S. engagement with the United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO). His dedication to harnessing the power of music to promote peace and intercultural dialogue is exactly why he is a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.

Along with our event cosponsors, L'Oreal USA and National Geographic, we were delighted to be joined by UN Foundation CEO, Kathy Calvin; George Papagiannis, External Relations lead for the U.S. at UNESCO; nine Congressional leaders; and an exuberant crowd of jazz-loving congressional staff and NGO colleagues.

We have talked to you about the importance of UNESCO before, but this event really signified its value. At the reception, Mr. Hancock reminded us that UNESCO plays a huge role in both cultural and other global efforts, including literacy education for police in Afghanistan, the promotion of free media and journalism, basic education for girls in Pakistan, and the protection of the world's most beautiful heritage sites that inspire awe around the world.

Regrettably, we are encountering a challenging time in America's relationship with UNESCO, as the U.S. is withholding all funding from the organization. To protect our own national interests and the organization's vitally important programs, we must find a way to immediately and fully reengage with UNESCO. (Learn more about why the U.S. is not currently engaged with UNESCO and its valuable contributions to our country and around the world.)

As congressional leaders listened to the sweet sounds of Herbie Hancock's music this week, I knew we were on to something on Capitol Hill. Take a stand and help us save U.S. leadership at UNESCO.

Thank you for your support,

Peter Yeo
Executive Director
Better World Campaign
BetterWorldCampaign.org