In October 2021, the U.S. Department of State launched A Global Moment in Time, a special International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) initiative to address significant contemporary societal conditions affecting all corners of the world. This initiative consisted of three hybrid projects with up to 100 global participants each, nominated by U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. The participants, hailing from over 90 countries, explored challenges and opportunities in photojournalism during the pandemic, efforts to foster peace and justice, and reflections on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA).
The initiative kicked off with a special welcome by U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, and included a virtual exchange in 2021, sustained virtual engagement for about a year, and an in-person program in 2022 or 2023, depending on the project. Through this initiative, participants closely explored topics tied to their professional interests, engaged on significant global issues, and formed meaningful connections with both Americans and their international cohorts. When the program concluded, they were encouraged to share their stories and contribute to a shared photobook documenting their experiences in their home communities.
The Projects
Photojournalists Document Challenges and Opportunities in the COVID Era
International photojournalists explored the role of photojournalism around the world in this IVLP project, including its role in civil discourse, public opinion, and public understanding of how COVID-19 has disrupted society, as well as how it has brought people and organizations together. The group also engaged with U.S. photojournalists and media experts to discuss disinformation and the responsibility of media during the crisis.
Implementing Partners: Global Minnesota, Global New Orleans, Global Santa Fe, International Institute of Wisconsin, Presidential Precinct (virtual), World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth, World Learning, WorldOregon and World Partnerships, Inc.
Peace and Justice
Photo Credits: Ava D’Sa / CNWillson / Leesa Fields
This IVLP project examined ways to foster peace and justice at local and regional levels around the world and how leaders and organizations in the United States engage in mediating disputes arising from political, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and regional differences. The participants and their U.S. counterparts shared conflict resolution methods and strategies for directing positive political, social, and economic change in a democratic society and explored how to balance divergent social demands and interests, and how to participate effectively in international fora to end conflict, promote justice, and sustain peace.
Implementing Partners: Citizen Diplomacy International Philadelphia (virtual), Georgia Council for International Visitors (virtual), Global Minnesota (virtual), GlobalPittsburgh, Global Ties Detroit (virtual), Global Ties Miami, Institute of International Education (IIE), International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles (virtual), OIV’s New York Program Branch (virtual), San Diego Diplomacy Council (virtual), Tulsa Global Alliance (virtual), World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth, World Affairs Council of Kentucky and Southern Indiana (virtual), World Affairs Council of St. Louis, WorldBoston (virtual), WorldChicago, WorldDenver, WorldOregon, and World Trade Center Institute
Reflections on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA)
Photo Credits: Ava D’Sa / Belinda Chiu / Tatyana Albert
This IVLP project examined what Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) mean in the United States and around the globe. Participants and their U.S. counterparts examined their own understandings of DEIA and the need to advance opportunities for all. Participants also examined how historical trends continue to impact minorities and the efforts of modern civil rights groups to challenge assumptions and change the status quo.
Implementing Partners: Cleveland Council on World Affairs, Colorado Springs World Affairs Council, Global Minnesota (virtual), Global Ties Arizona (virtual), Global Ties Detroit (virtual), Global Ties Kalamazoo, Global Ties San Francisco, International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles (virtual), Meridian International Center, WorldBoston, WorldChicago (virtual), WorldOregon, WorldOrlando
The Photobook
A Global Moment in Time: Through the Lens of IVLP Participants
Collecting photo-story submissions from A Global Moment in Time participants, the U.S. Department of State partnered with Meridian International Center to produce a special digital photobook to commemorate the initiative. The photobook reflects recent challenges and accomplishments, reminding us that the globe is one community with many common interests. Together, we can tackle shared challenges and learn from one another!
The Testimonies
Click below to hear about the "A Global Moment in Time" experience from select participants.
