The Division of Cultural Relations and the Role of Modern Language Teachers in the Promotion of Inter‐American Cultural Relations*

Abstract

THE question of encouraging and strengthening cultural relations and intellectual co-operation between the United States and other countries has assumed an increasing importance during the past few years. While in many nations of the world special governmental agencies have been developed for this purpose, in the United States dependence has been almost entirely on private foundations and institutions. Throughout the country, active and effective societies, clubs, and organizations of every kind exist to promote cultural interchange and a sympathetic understanding of the culture, history, and social institutions of other peoples. The work of many of these institutions has been worthy of the highest praise. The colleges and universities of this country have also devoted considerable attention to the study of the development and present condition of other nations. Many of these organizations with limited means and restricted budgets have encouraged every legitimate form of international exchange and have contributed in no small way to the development of a comprehension of other cultures within this country and of our own culture abroad. It is clear, however, that in spite of the praiseworthy efforts of many of these groups, there exists a need for a co-ordination to increase effectiveness and avoid to a larger degree inevitable overlapping. The absence of a centralizing agency in the United States to co-ordinate these activities has long been felt and it is recognized that the Government of the United States has certain definite obligations in stimulating and encouraging contacts with the other peoples of the world. Although this recognition constitutes a departure, in a certain sense, from the traditional practice, it is reasonable nevertheless that in our relations with other governments and peoples, the aid and co-operation of official agencies is necessary. The decision to establish the Division of Cultural Relations in the Department of State is the result of mature consideration and careful thought. It is the opinion of the Department that there are certain limitations on private efforts which can be overcome through the existence of an official agency which can co-operate with and advise, suggest, and aid private enterprises in every possible way.