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Empowering Kids to Resolve the World’s Issues
December 01, 2011
Kristianna, an 8th-grader from East Moline, had an epiphany at this year’s International Day. 
“It’s scary to realize how much we take for granted,” the Glenview Middle School student said.
Kristianna was one of more than 300 middle and junior high students from eastern Iowa and western Illinois who attended the 15th-annual event aimed at educating students on local and global human rights issues. The event’s main sponsors include the College of Education, in collaboration with UI International Programs and the Stanley Foundation.
Laura Kalman (BA ’88), an 8th-grade language arts teacher at Kristianna’s school, said International Day is a wonderful experience for the students.
“They get to learn about things they’re not exposed to otherwise,” she said.
Students attended a keynote address by balloon artist Addi Somekh, chose two from a list of several breakout sessions, and ended the day with an interactive performance by the UI Afro-Cuban Drum and Dance Ensemble.
Somekh has traveled around the world and uses balloon art as a way to break down cultural barriers. He believes that “laughter sounds the same in every single language” and by making people happy one can literally communicate with anybody in the world.
Anne, an 8th-grader at McKinley Middle School in Cedar Rapids, said Somekh’s talk encouraged the students to not give up on their dreams.
“I play basketball and I can see how it relates—even if you’re behind in a game, you should never give up, and it should inspire you to practice and get better,” she said.
Breakout session topics included everything from assistive technology to African art to Japanese pop culture and “Degenerate Art” in Nazi Germany.
Binnar Kim, a UI graduate student, presented a breakout session titled, “Do or Die: Crisis in North Korea” along with
Hani Elkadi (Teaching Cert. ‘90/MA ‘97), Helen Oh, and Hyunjoo Cho.
“I grew up in North Korea, so I didn’t have a chance like this,” he said. “I’m glad these people have the opportunity to attend a large-scale conference, speak up, and ask questions.”
Yashar Vasef, executive director of the
Iowa United Nations Association, presented a breakout session titled “One in 7 Billion: The Challenges Facing Your Generation.” He said the session aimed to inspire students to find an issue that matters to them and take action.
“These kids are the key to resolving the world’s issues,” Vasef said. “We’re trying to empower them, show them they are the ones who are going to make a difference. We’re looking for leaders.”
Alisa Meggitt (BA ’02), a 7th-grade teacher at North Central Junior High in North Liberty, brought 25 students with her to the event. She said International Day is inspiring for students and for teachers.
“The program is so substantive,” she said. “I always come away with resources and ideas.”
Read more of the December 2011 Education First.
http://www.education.uiowa.edu/en/EducationFirst/December_Newsletter/International-Day.aspx