Democracy demands discourse.
Upcoming events
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Sep 21, 2022
Honoring the Spirit of America: A Conversation about Immigration
In-person Event
Join the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and Independence National Historical Park to learn from a panel of speakers who will provide insight into why immigration—throughout U.S. history—has been so important and how we can continue to address the challenges of immigration policy today.
Location:
Independence National Historical Park
Congress Hall, 5th & Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Schedule:
5:30 p.m. ET Registration opens
6:00 p.m. ET Program begins
7:15 p.m. ET Conclusion
Get involved with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia
Join the Council in our mission of bringing global affairs education to Philadelphians of all ages
Join the Council
Become a member to provide year-long support of global affairs education for the youth of Philadelphia. Show your support as one of Philadelphia's premier global citizens and join a wide and diverse community of globally-minded Philadelphians.
Gain access to world affairs
Engage with world leaders, policy shapers, and experts on the most important global issues of our time. Go beyond the headlines to hear directly from these speakers at more than 25 events each year.
Support more than 2,500 Philadelphia students
95% of the world’s population and 85% of global economic growth is outside of the United States. 14% of Philadelphians are foreign-born. Help the Council to prepare Philadelphia’s youth – the next generation of political, cultural, and economic leaders – for success in an increasingly international workforce.
Featured Trip
February 21-28
Mayan Splendor in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula
Discover the vibrant culture and impressive history of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula on this first-class, small-group adventure! Spend seven nights in colorful Mérida, a colonial-era beauty, and explore the magnificent Mayan cities of Chichén Itzá and Uxmal, the golden city of Izamal and the Celestún Estuary, home to flocks of bright pink flamingos! Savor delectable cuisine, traditional music and dancing, and a fun excursion of your choice in Mérida. Includes expert guides and lecturers. No single supplement!
March 05-10
Great Trains & Grand Canyons
Experience the scenery of Grand Canyon National Park & the red rocks of Sedona, the Native American history at the Montezuma Castle National Monument, the Old West nostalgia of Two Train Rides & 5 Nights at a picturesque property in Sedona, Arizona, known for its jeep rides, artist galleries and breathtaking red rock scenery.
March 09-12
New Orleans: Remembering WWII
Travel to The National WWII Museum in New Orleans to explore, remember, and reflect on World War II through exclusive access to the Museum’s campus. The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience a custom program at this world-class institution!
March 29-10
Insider’s Japan
This truly fascinating, well-crafted 13-day small group tour features urban and pastoral highlights, including Tokyo, cultural capital Kyoto, and magnificent Mt. Fuji. Engage in local life and head off the beaten path to the lovely historic cities of Takayama and Kanazawa. Discover Hiroshima reborn with an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension.
April 13-21
Dutch Waterways
Glide along picturesque waterways in the Netherlands and Belgium on a seven-night, first-class river cruise and delight in the Old World ambience of Amsterdam, Bruges, and Antwerp. Revel in a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of Vermeer paintings, the breathtaking tulips of Keukenhof Gardens, and a choice of included cultural and culinary experiences! No single supplement!
Education Programs
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07 11
Summer Global Leadership Seminar
The Summer Global Leadership Seminar is a week-long summer institute open to all rising high school freshman,...
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06 27
United Nations Summer Camp
The United Nations Summer Camp: Sustainable Development Goals in Action, is a weeklong summer camp for middle school...
May 10 2022
Jr. Model United Nations
The Student Diplomat - Jr. Model United Nations Program is a five-month journey (January to May) that introduces over 750 middle school students to international affairs and cultural diplomacy. With an emphasis on developing students’ research, writing, cultural competency, and communication skills, the program helps meet the growing demand for global affairs curricula in local middle schools.
The Council in the News
Bodine students don’t just study other cultures; they live them | The Philadelphia Tribune
Bodine High School for International Affairs celebrates 40 years | The Philadelphia Tribune
U.S. policy in Middle East pushes action without strategy | Opinion
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It was a terrific week with many excellent speakers. I think it was the best IDC I’ve attended and I’ve been going since 2010. Thanks for putting together such a great week. Everything appeared to go off without a hitch, at least from the attendees' point of view. The clouds even parted and the rain stopped when the group arrived at the Taipei representatives office... I look forward to next year.
Bill Korstad
"Inside Washington, DC" traveler>On behalf of Bishop Shanahan High School's World Affairs Club students and myself, I would like to thank you for the opportunity that you provided us [to attend an event with Secretary Janet Napolitano]. As always the event was amazing. The chatter in the van on the drive home sealed the testimony--tiny screens and texts were no match for the impact of Madame Secretary Janet Napolitano on teens (and their teacher).
Joan Hayes
English Department and World Affairs Club Moderator at Bishop Shanahan High School>"[The Whole Truth is]…a refreshingly thoughtful look at the challenges facing our country and the world. No shouting, no talking over each other; just respectful debate and discussion.”
The Exeter Bulletin
“When traveling abroad, we like to get the real ‘feel’ of the country through sight, sounds & smells. This trip accomplished all spades! History, architecture, political atmosphere, social situations and seeing the standard of living up close and personal. The music and spirit of the people can only truly be appreciated by being in the country. Many thanks for a wonderful experience!”
Suzanne Simpson, CT
“[The Whole Truth brings the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia’s] lecture and discussion series, considered to be a jewel on the political and diplomatic circuit, to a wider audience, one that did not have to be present in a Philadelphia auditorium to partake or participate in often probing debates.”
Delaware County Daily Times
“This tour was wonderful! Our Cuban guide was one of the best! She knew a lot of history as well as current issues.”
Dianna Jabis, NY
“The Game Drives were the highlight of this trip. Seeing the large animals in their natural habitats was just spectacular!”
Barbara Weiss, CA
