This week, Spirit Cultural Exchange is in Washington, D.C., actively advocating for the future of international exchange programs. We are meeting with legislators, sharing success stories, and emphasizing the invaluable benefits of BridgeUSA J-1 Visa programs in the United States. As a J-1 Visa sponsor, we know firsthand how cultural exchange builds global leaders, strengthens US communities, and fosters international cooperation.
However, these programs face challenges that require urgent action. A recent Department of State funding freeze threatens the sustainability of cultural exchange initiatives, jeopardizing opportunities for participants and host communities alike. Now is the time to rally in support of international exchanges and ensure that these programs continue to thrive.
Why Advocacy Matters
BridgeUSA international exchange programs play a critical role in strengthening the US economy, advancing foreign policy interests, and fostering goodwill worldwide. Through people-to-people exchanges, international participants gain firsthand exposure to American culture, customs, and society while also contributing to local economies.
- Exchange Programs Make America SAFER: BridgeUSA programs enhance US national security by building long-term relationships with individuals from over 190 countries. Participants return home with a greater appreciation for the United States, sharing their experiences with their communities and promoting mutual understanding.
- Exchange Programs Make America STRONGER: These exchanges foster people-to-people diplomacy, creating lifelong connections between Americans and individuals from around the world. The richness of American culture is shared globally through the experiences of exchange visitors, helping to build a more interconnected world.
- Exchange Programs Make America MORE PROSPEROUS: Exchange visitors support US communities by renting apartments, shopping locally, dining out, and participating in tourism. Many host businesses, particularly in seasonal industries, rely on BridgeUSA participants to supplement their workforce, ensuring economic stability and growth.
What You Can Do
While Spirit Cultural Exchange is advocating in Washington, you can also take action to support these vital international exchange programs.
1. Contact Your Legislators
Congress has the power to restore critical funding for international exchange programs. We urge you to reach out to your representatives and ask them to support cultural exchange initiatives. The Alliance for International Exchange has launched an advocacy campaign to urge Congress to stop the funding freeze and restore these essential programs. We encourage all exchange champions take action today and urge Congress to support thousands of American students and communities by contacting the US Department of State to demand that funding be turned back on for international exchange programs.
2. Join Americans for Cultural Exchange (A4CE)
Americans for Cultural Exchange (A4CE) is a coalition dedicated to protecting and strengthening BridgeUSA programs. By joining A4CE, you align with a network of organizations and individuals committed to advocating for policies that support international exchange. Your voice, combined with many others, can make a significant difference in shaping the future of these programs.
3. Spread Awareness
Educating others about the importance of cultural exchange is a powerful advocacy tool. Share success stories from exchange participants, engage with policymakers on social media, and encourage businesses, schools, and community leaders to support BridgeUSA programs. The more awareness we create, the stronger our collective voice becomes.