International cultural exchange is a valuable tool for fostering understanding, uniting people of different ethnic and religious backgrounds, addressing U.S. diplomatic goals and strengthening our nation’s ties to our international counterparts.   The joy and individual growth that cultural exchange inspires transcends all political and social boundaries.

What’s at Stake

Funding for cultural exchange has never recovered since the elimination of the United States Information Agency (USIA) and USIA’s Arts America Program. The State Department’s cultural exchange program funds are climbing from a low point of only $2 million a few years ago to an estimated $9 million in FY09. An increased appropriation would expand the State Department’s ability to foster mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries.

Tools and Resources

Cultural Exchange Funding and Resource List
This comprehensive list provides cultural exchange funding and resources which are available from the private, government and nonprofit sectors.

State Department Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
The State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, through its Cultural Programs Division, supports a variety of cultural exchange programs that further our nation's foreign policy, foster America's artistic excellence and promote mutual understanding and respect for other cultures and traditions.

For more advocacy information and to take action, visit the Performing Arts Alliance.