“It was very important for me to have this invitation to speak at the United Nations. I’ve been with ATD Fourth World for over 30 years here in the UK and I put a lot of my 30 years experience into this speech. Whenever I go away I don’t just represent the UK, but also Ireland ,being Irish. It’s very important that I put both countries on the map.
Representing others gives me great strength and hopefully it’s a boost to the other families we are working with, in knowing that I was there representing them on their behalves as a delegate for others going through the same things I’ve gone through.
I wear a collar and tie when representing ATD Fourth World, it’s important to represent ourselves in that matter of fashion. We might be poor, but we don’t want to show the true meaning of being poor when we go to these places. I think that we have to show that we want to be  treated with dignity and respect.
That’s why I did it. It’s very important to be there and get our voices across. It was a good day for everyone and that is what ATD Fourth World is all about.”

Seamus reflecting on his visit to New York City and his presentation at the United Nations on October 17th The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

By Seamus ATD Fourth World