This week, more than 80 young people from countries throughout the Americas, met in Panama City for the Foro Joven Panamericano (Pan American Youth Forum). At this event, the young leaders from countries as far south as Argentina and as far north as the United States, learned, debated, and acted upon some of the most pressing issues facing their countries.

 

While the debate points were various, and participants had diverse backgrounds and perspectives, the two resounding themes that all leaders agreed upon were the sanctity of human life and the importance of marriage between a man and a woman. The leaders agreed that life, which begins at conception is best protected by a married mother and father, regardless of their country of origin and culture. Next month, the young people who wrote a declaration explaining their values will present their ideas at the next OAS general assembly in the Dominican Republic.