AMES, Iowa — The third annual 4-H Global Citizenship Day is set for Thursday, Aug. 16, at the Iowa State Fair. This cultural exploration will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the 4-H Building on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The public is invited to share in this global experience consisting of cultural performances, service learning and interactive booths.
Global citizenship is an area within the Iowa 4-H program that encourages youth to gain an understanding of global interconnectedness and issues affecting our world, become knowledgeable about different cultures including their own, and learn responsibility in positively contributing to care for our global society.
Due to the steady increase in globalization, the need is even greater for every individual to learn basic principles of global citizenship. Global competence is necessary for global peace, stability and development.
This one day event will consist of a variety of cultural exhibits including Czech and Latino heritage as well as Asian and African-American heritage. Participants will be able to learn dances, make jewelry, create paper flowers and take part in other activities. Three stage performances are set throughout the day and will showcase dances from several countries.
Two service learning opportunities will be available. One will introduce participants to the effects of plastic both in the environment and around the world. The other is an opportunity to design decorative beads for jewelry to support Uganda and their educational needs.
“My main goal for the participants is to learn at least one new fact about a culture found throughout the world. In learning just one fact, they are already on the path to becoming a better global citizen,” said Roman Kiefer, global citizenship intern for Iowa 4-H.
Complete with a scavenger hunt, mural painting and a chalkboard discussion, Global Citizenship Day is an event for all ages. Through hands on activities and cultural exploration, participants will be exposed to a variety of cultures found throughout Iowa and beyond.
“The Iowa 4-H program strives to prepare Iowa’s youth to be successful, contributing members of society. Through the Global Citizenship area, youth are exposed to various opportunities throughout the year in the form of curriculum, camps, workshops and webinars, which aim to educate youth about the world around them and how they can make an impact on others and the communities in which they live,” said Haley Jones, state 4-H program specialist.
The Global Citizenship area within Iowa 4-H utilizes an intern to help create, organize, and run events and programs throughout the year. This internship experience is made possible by a gracious Iowa State donor, Deb Marple, who shares both an appreciation for the 4-H program and Global Citizenship.
The 4-H Global Citizenship Day at the Iowa State Fair is open to the public and free to all participants. For more information on the Iowa 4-H Youth Development program, please contact an ISU Extension and Outreach county office or visit the Iowa 4-H website at www.extension.iastate.edu/4h.
— Haley Jones, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
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