A movie, and elections

"The Band's Visit" is a charming, wistful film that depicts an Egyptian police band getting lost in Israel. Anyone interested in cultural diplomacy will enjoy this movie, which not only succeeds as entertainment, but also shows how music can remind us how much we share with those we sometimes perceive as totally different from us.

In the film, music helps the Egyptians and Israelis realize how small their world really is. Certainly, Cultures in Harmony has accomplished that for many. For some reading these words, yesterday's elections in Zimbabwe may be a far off matter. Those of us at Cultures in Harmony count dozens of Zimbabweans among our close personal friends. We wish them and their compatriots peace, stability, and a speedy announcement of election results in the days ahead.

A few changes

The Mexico concept paper has been updated with a few changes, as has the donor list.

Because of a few additions to the donor list, including a generous gift from Carmen McGrae, we have a more encouraging thermometer to offer you:



Why am I not revealing the new thermometer on a Friday? Because tomorrow, my computer heads for the shop. Also, soon we will unveil a brand new website, designed by board member Amanda von Goetz.

Check out the wonderful resources of the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy, an organization that has done extensive research on the importance of cultural diplomacy.

In defense of cultural diplomacy

Read this excellent defense of cultural diplomacy by John Ferguson, executive director of American Voices.

Projects come, projects go

Due to logistical reasons, the project in Papua New Guinea has been postponed indefinitely. Instead, we are adding an exciting new project in Qatar.

But what does it all mean?

Daniel J. Wakin has this excellent piece reflecting on the New York Philharmonic's trip to North Korea, a victory for cultural diplomacy.