Dear ICDLA members and friends,

This year has been a tough one for ICDLA. Throughout the year, many of our IVLP groups were cancelled due to pauses in funding, staffing changes at the U.S. Department of State, and, of course, the government shutdown. We are grateful for your continued interest and support during this rough patch! 

Because of the uncertainty each week brought, we were challenged with lots of reorganizing and adapting. You probably noticed there were fewer ICDLA events and fewer home hospitality opportunities for members this year. Our ICDLA Newsletters were also less frequent, as we went from monthly to bi-monthly. We are sorry you didn’t hear from us as often this year – but as we’ve learned how to deal with frequent changes, we are planning more opportunities to engage in the new year. 

Although many groups were cancelled throughout the year, we are happy to report we did arrange valuable meetings and connections for 36 groups. We also have two more arriving in December, a group from Korea to discuss Enhancing U.S.-Korea Commercial Space Ties, and a group from 23 different countries on the topic of Mega Sporting Events. We also continue to stay connected with our international alumni, which keeps our mission moving forward.

These times remind us just how vital people-to-people diplomacy truly is. When official channels slow down, the human connections we build become even more important. Our New Year’s wish is for more stability and many more international participants who will have the opportunity to experience Greater Los Angeles businesses, civic organizations, and people firsthand. 

In January, our monthly newsletters will return with a brand-new look and all the news and insights about our 2026 programs and events.



Warmly,

The ICDLA Team

Sharing a Global Perspective

As showcased in our newsletters this year, during the chaos, we did continue to arrange meaningful exchanges. They were uplifting in reminding us of the power of global connections during uncertain times. 

Exploring Pathways to Peace and Understanding

One of our recent groups was in October through the Open World Program, when we welcomed a group of emerging leaders from Tajikistan. Throughout their stay in Los Angeles, the participants explored how local communities, government institutions, and nonprofit organizations promote religious freedom and dialogue.

Their program began with a visit to Homeboy Industries, where their meeting was led by a former gang member who now works to uplift others. Founded by Father Greg Boyle, Homeboy Industries, the world's largest gang intervention and rehabilitation program, provides second chances for formerly incarcerated and gang-involved individuals through training, jobs, and community.



At the Museum of Tolerance, delegates observed how the museum challenges visitors to confront prejudice and intolerance through immersive multimedia experiences. The group reflected deeply on how storytelling, education, and empathy can serve as antidotes to hate.

Meetings at LA Civil Rights, led by Director of Policy and Enforcement Joumana Silyan-Saba, and at the Office of Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove offered further insights into how Los Angeles upholds civil rights and equity through public policy, advocacy, and collaboration.

The program concluded with an inspiring conversation with Tony LoRe, Founder of Youth Mentoring Connection. The delegates were moved by the organization’s dedication to supporting at-risk youth and left reflecting on how one caring relationship can change a life — and a community.

A meaningful aspect of this program was its home-stay component — the only ICDLA program that invites visitors to stay with ICDLA members. This home stay experience allows delegates to explore daily life from within — sharing meals, stories, and traditions that turn diplomacy into genuine friendship. This cultural immersion often becomes an unforgettable part of their experience.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our home hosts who generously welcomed delegates into their homes. Their hospitality opened the door to real connection and cultural exchange, helping our visitors feel not just hosted, but truly welcomed into our community.

From professional meetings to kitchen-table conversations — the program offered a variety of perspectives and meaningful connections that participants will take back home to inspire action within their own communities. Through these exchanges, ICDLA continues to build bridges of understanding.

International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles depends on its members and friends to help support its programs. If you are not an ICDLA Citizen Diplomat, please review our membership benefits here and consider joining. We need your support now more than ever! Please make a contribution today.

International Opportunities for High School Students

At ICDLA, we believe global understanding begins with curiosity — and that young people play a vital role in shaping a more connected and compassionate world. For many students, the chance to learn in a different country can spark interests, passions, and friendships that last long after they return home. Below, you’ll find international opportunities that give high school students the chance to learn, explore, and develop new skills.

Japanese Language & Culture Competition

CIEE High School Study Abroad

Just 2% of American high school students study abroad, and even fewer spend a full semester overseas. Through CIEE High School Semester Abroad programs, students can experience authentic immersion in a local high school or follow U.S.-aligned courses with a small, supportive cohort at a CIEE center.

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