German-US-American Youth Exchanges – USA-Special 2022
exchange programs. The reasons for this are manifold. Including these important groups remains a key chal- lenge, and one that must be tackled in line with the core objectives of exchange programs. To correct this imbalance, some programs have been designed specifically to address to these poorly rep - resented groups. For instance, the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program , which is named after the former Congressman, offers US-American students with limited financial resources scholarships to study or complete internships abroad. In this spirit, in the 1990s the U.S. Embassy in Germany began to work with German partners to offer successful new initiatives geared specifically towards poorly repre - sented German target groups. One example is the com- munity service-based USA For You for students aiming to achieve a first or middle school diploma. With the suspension of the majority of exchange pro- grams as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020, there has been an increase in the use of digital formats. While experience has shown that they are not an equal substitution for in-person exchanges, they have led to the broader participation of young people and may therefore be a gateway towards participation in an in-person exchange. More important than ever before Exchange programs will continue to be an important driver of peace, civic engagement and equal opportu- nities. They have demonstrated their diplomatic value not only in transatlantic relations, but also globally. An exchange is a formative experience that helps eliminate prejudices about different nationalities and cultures and fosters valuable life-long connections. It has the poten- tial to show young people how they can work together to tackle climate change, sustainable economics and business practices, extremism, and other challenges. In a speech on cultural diplomacy, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: “Cultural exchanges are a powerful
Washington, D.C., 1961: The float in celebration of the People-to-People program inauguration speech passes president John F. Kennedy.
way for people to connect across borders. […] Exchang- es can get people to see each other’s humanity, build a sense of common purpose, change the minds of those who misunderstand us, and tell the American story in a way that no policy or speech ever could.”
“Cultural exchanges are a powerful way for people to connect across borders. [...] Exchanges can get people to see each other’s humanity, build a sense of common purpose, change the minds of those who misunder- stand us, and tell the American story in a way that no policy or speech ever could.”
If you know anyone who is ready for a life-changing experience, this is where the journey starts: Education & Exchanges
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