Our advocacy history
For more than 80 years, Lions International has engaged in advocacy. From our long-standing relationship with the United Nations to improving lives in communities across the world, Lions and Leos are committed to making real change — and encouraging fellow members to get involved!
Our relationship with the U.N. and beyond
Lions and the United Nations have a long and rich history. In 1945, Lions International took part in the development of the United Nations charter signed by representatives from 50 countries. In 1947, the U.N. granted Lions consultative status with the U.N. Economic and Social Council, committed to the welfare of people worldwide.
We celebrate our continued work with United Nations partners, including the World Health Organization on life-changing vision service and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime on Lions Quest programming.
Throughout this relationship, we’ve leveraged our shared goals to expand our advocacy work and its impact. And in turn, Lions and Leos are empowered to meet community needs and stay involved in important conversations on local and global levels.
Milestones through the years
While our approach to advocacy has changed over time, Lions and Leos commitment to advocacy has not. The approach is simple — Lions and Leos listen to the needs of their communities, raise awareness of the causes they care about, inform lawmakers and leaders at all levels, amplify the importance of service clubs, and work to increase peace and international understanding. The result? Lasting change. Here are just some of the notable accomplishments Lions have made.
1945
Assisted in drafting the nongovernmental organization section of the United Nations (U.N.) Charter.
2010
Began participating in the annual Clinton Global Initiative to address global issues with international leaders.
2011
Displayed a Lions International photo exhibit in the Russell Senate Office Building rotunda in Washington, D.C., USA to raise awareness of Lions' global efforts.
2012
Lions club members were recognized as Champions of Change by White House staff and other officials.
2012
The Lions Clubs International Century of Service Commemorative Coin Act was signed into law, with proceeds donated to LCIF.
2014
U.S. Lion leaders met with members of Congress for the inaugural Lions Day on Capital Hill.
2017
A bipartisan resolution was passed by the U.S. Congress to commemorate the centennial of Lions International.
2018-2025
Lions in India, South Korea, Canada and Brazil hosted their first Advocacy Day service projects.
2025
Advocated for the United Nations to establish the International Day of Deafblindess on June 27 in honor of Helen Keller’s birthday.
Achieving global goals
Check out how Lions and Leos work passionately and creatively to address not only our global cause areas, but also the U.N.'s Sustainable Development Goals.
Start your advocacy journey
Ready to get started on advocating for causes important to you and your community? Check out resources and tools to help you get started.
