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Congressman Carnahan Stresses the Engagement of American Citizens

Four U.S. Representatives Speak to NCIV Conference Participants About Their Role as Citizen Diplomats

by Elise Boyson, NCIV Intern

Bright and early on Friday, February 15, more than 200 eager National Meeting participants headed to Capitol Hill for the annual 2008 NCIV Breakfast on the Hill. NCIV National Meeting participants, six members of Congress, and more than 35 Congressional staffers came together in the magnificent Caucus Room in the Cannon House Office Building. With more members of Congress and legislative aides in attendance than ever before, the event signified the increased advocacy efforts of the NCIV network as well as the acknowledgment of the important role of citizen diplomats by Capitol Hill staffers.

After participants had the opportunity to mingle with the Capitol Hill staff in attendance over breakfast and a much-needed cup of coffee, Sherry Mueller, President, NCIV, kicked off the event by introducing Ms. Rachel Zagrabelny of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), the corporate sponsor of the Breakfast. Ms. Zagrabelny affirmed ICSC’s commitment to citizen diplomacy, stating that their commitment is appropriate considering their status as an international organization with offices in 80 countries around the world.

Following Ms. Zagrabelny’s remarks, Congressman Russ Carnahan of Missouri (D-3rd), NCIV's official host, rose to the podium and spoke about fellow Missouri citizen diplomats and the hope for bettering America’s image in the world. He gave the examples of Mark Twain and Harry Truman as fellow Missourians who believed in the power of traveling as "fatal to prejudice." Congressman Carnahan acknowledged that while anti-American sentiment is currently on the rise, there is still bipartisan support to convey to the world “what we (as Americans) are about”. He encouraged those at the breakfast to continue their crucial work because, “now, more than ever, the role of citizens comes into play”. Congressman Carnahan ended his speech by affirming that “American is truly at its best when engaged.”

Participants also had the opportunity to hear commentary from three other members of the House of Representatives. Congressman Ed Royce of California (R-40th) echoed Congressman Carnahan’s emphasis on the power of citizen diplomacy when he presented the case of severe conflict in Yugoslavia. It is no coincidence, Congressman Royce noted, that Yugoslavia was the only former Soviet country where international exchange programs were not reinstated after the Cold War. He thanked members and encouraged them to continue their work towards “changing attitudes of what will be the next generation of leaders.” Next, Congressman Pete Sessions of Texas (R-32nd) focused on the United States’ belief in basic principles that should be available to all citizens of the world. He highlighted the International Visitor Leadership Program’s ability to prepare participants to share these principles in their home countries. Finally, Congressman Jeff Flake of Arizona (R-6th) demonstrated his strong beliefs in citizen diplomacy by citing his dedication to lifting the travel ban on Cuba so Americans can travel and establish relationships on the island.

Sherry Mueller approached the podium once again and encouraged the crowd to “Go get ‘em!” as they dispersed all over Capitol Hill to meet with their respective legislators to explain the lasting value of the IVLP and continue to ask for Congressional support of the NCIV network.

PHOTOS:  (Clockwise, starting from top left) Congressman Russ Carnahhan of Missouri Speaks at Breakfast on the Hill;  Kyle Moyer, Susan Reiner, and Molly Edwards, World Affairs Council of Arizona, with Congressman Jeff Flake of Arizona (Second from Right); Congressman Ed Royce of California; Congressman Pete Sessions of Texas (Middle) with Roy Harrell and Jerry Jordan, North Texas Council for International Visitors

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