Think of this as my contribution to International Education Week (IEW) 2024, which is next week. Here’s the introduction. Follow this link to read the entire essay.

The day after the US presidential election, Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of NAFSA, posted the following on her LinkedIn page:

“Waking up to a new day, and America has spoken. The work of international education has never been more important. It is the bridge that unites us, ensuring a future where we are part of the world – not apart from it.

“The young people we nurture today, teaching them the values of shared humanity, compassion, cross-cultural understanding, and empathy, are the leaders of tomorrow. International educators, through their purpose, dedication, and action, inspire us to not only imagine what is possible but to live out what is right and necessary.

“… Now, more than ever, we must redouble our efforts. Together, we must build a present and future where mutual understanding, respect, shared humanity, connection, and global citizenship thrive.“

While it was intended to be an inspirational and reassuring reminder of international education’s noble mission and core values, and an impassioned call to action, it rings hollow under the present circumstances – yet another example of “do as we say, not as we do”.

Peace, MAA

In memory of the victims and in solidarity with the survivors.