One of the topics we explore with exchange participants is how to protect the rights of women and children. We currently tackle the issue through online workshops and discussions, similar to our in-person exchange conversations.
In July 2019, we hosted such an in-person group from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. They focused on the subject, viewing it through the lens of social services, public-private partnerships, and law enforcement assistance. To do this, they met with Barbie Vallet and Paula Doty of the Gulf Coast Kids House, Samantha Ray at the PACE Center for Girls, and Special Victim’s Unit Investigating Officer Jason Comans and Sergeant Patrick Frazier at the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
Their official welcome at Pensacola City Hall by City Council Executive Don Kraher provided a valuable overview of the area’s history. It included time with attorney Ryan Wiggins who provided an excellent overview of legislation about gender violence and the marriage of minors and ended with a presentation of honorary citizenship with the City of Pensacola.
At the University of West Florida, Dr. Kimberly McCorkle and Dr. Richard Hough explored the many facets of domestic violence and how law enforcement works to address them. Together, they provided a look into how university faculty and students can engage with the community on the issue of domestic violence and law enforcement.
The Gulf Coast Diplomacy Youth Diplomats next joined the visitors at Feeding the Gulf Coast for a volunteer activity. Sorting donated food alongside each other, the two groups witnessed how the nonprofit plays a vital role in providing nutrition for struggling individuals and families.
In addition to these activities, Joyce Black of Visit Pensacola presented the group with area souvenirs. Over the weekend, the exchange participants also enjoyed exploring the area from the water on a dolphin cruise, and local families invited them into their homes for meals.
We appreciate the professional courtesy extended to the group by the community and the hospitality measures offered by Gulf Coast Diplomacy members Julie & Tim Kane, Cookie Kichler, Jeremy Ochoa, Drs. Megan & Jerry Pratt, Drs. Kaberi & Swadesh Samanta, and John Toole who welcomed participants at their dining room tables.
The U.S. Department of State invited these visitors to the United States under the auspices of its International Visitor Leadership Program. World Learning arranged their national program, and Gulf Coast Diplomacy arranged their local program.
