Join MIC on Friday, May 9, as Thoraya Obaid, executive director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), addresses the importance of women in the developing world. Her visit coincides with the photo exhibit, “Family of Woman,” in Minneapolis. Ms. Obaid will discuss this exhibit which provides a glimpse into the lives of women and families in the developing world – their daily existence, the challenges that threaten their lives, and the hope for a better future.

Ms. Obaid holds the rank of UN under-secretary-general and is the first Saudi Arabian national to head a UN agency. She previously served as director of UNFPA’s Division for Arab States and Europe. Prior to joining the Fund, Ms. Obaid was deputy executive secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, where she also served as chief of the Social Development and Population Division.

The “Family of Woman” photo exhibit premiered in New York in late 2002, and Minneapolis is its first host on a national tour. Presented by the U.S. Committee for UNFPA, the exhibit will be displayed at the IDS Center Crystal Court from May 8-31.

This program is co-sponsored by the Better World Fund and United Nations Association of Minnesota (UNA).