A Global Moment in Time

A Global Moment in Time is a special International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) to address significant contemporary societal conditions affecting all corners of the world. The initiative explored the current state of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) and identified strategies to improve opportunities and access around the world. Participants included DEIA leaders from around the globe focused on women’s rights, persons with disabilities, the LGBTQIA+ community, and underserved communities, among others. Many of the IVs were from countries where these issues are not front and center, and they frequently work on the margins in their societies. 

To meaningfully address the topics in question, the initiative consisted of three hybrid multiyear projects – each with up to 100 participants nominated by U.S. embassies and consulates abroad:  

• A virtual 3-week long project in December 2021;
• A year+ of bimonthly virtual sessions designed to bridge between the two projects and develop and deepen relationships among the participants; and
• A two-week long project in February 2023, which began in Washington, DC, split into six different cities, and culminated in San Francisco.

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 The Global Moment in Time video highlights the stories of five project participants, including reflections on their work, challenges they’ve overcome, their GMiT IVLP program experience, and what they’ve taken away from participating in the initiative. 

We’re thankful to our partners in WorldOregon, WorldOrlando  and the World Affairs Council of St. Louis for making this video possible. 

A Global Moment In Time: Through the Lens of IVLP Participants 

This publication is a solemn remembrance of those whom we’ve lost and a reminder of our collective resilience and strength throughout this turbulent period. 

In collaboration with over 300 GMiT participants and partners, Meridian published A Global Moment in Time: Through the Lens of IVLP Participants to document the experiences of people in communities throughout the world during the COVID-19 pandemic.