8/16/2007 - Young people speak out for peace
Airdrie Echo — The world’s youths are speaking up against wars and conflicts that threaten the planet.
The AFS Intercultural Programs organization thinks the solution starts with more student exchange programs that promote mutual understanding and peace.
In turn, the organization, which is a world leader in student exchange programs, has launched a petition drive asking world leaders to expand student exchange programs around the world to promote a new kind of diplomacy.
When the petition is completed, AFS representatives plan to present the signatures to the United Nations.
“Our young people are our best ambassadors and they can carry the message,” said Francisco ‘Tachi’ Cazal, president and CEO of AFS Intercultural Programs. “As our petition says, friendship leads to understanding and understanding leads to peace.”
AFS (American Field Service) is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. The exchange programs were started after the Second World War by former volunteer ambulance drivers with a mission to promote understanding and avoid future conflicts among people.
The AFS exchange programs goal is to provide life-changing experiences in foreign countries for the students who serve as ambassadors of their native cultures. The programs, which enable students to live in foreign countries with host families, change the world one person at a time.
The exchanges are said to leave many lasting impressions on the host families, the host schools, and the local community.
The petition initiative calls on the leaders of the world to boost their support of student exchange programs from one country to another around the world.
“Friends don’t go to war, so let’s make some friends in the world,” said Rebecca Messner, a former AFS participant from the U.S.
For more information on the programs visit: www.afs.org or go to: www.exchanges4peace.org to sign the petition.
Scott Mitchell
Echo Reporter: Alberta, Canada
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
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