Culture, Identity and Diversity

In 2001, Heads of State of the 34 Member Countries of the OAS affirmed that they:

"Consider the cultural diversity that characterizes our region to be a source of great richness for our societies. Respect for and value of our diversity must be a cohesive factor that strengthens the social fabric and the development of our nations" (Declaration of Quebec City, 2001).

In this spirit the Department of Education and Culture of the OAS aims at promoting a better understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity; enhancing the dignity and the identity of the people of the Americas and improving the general knowledge of the role that minority groups such as the indigenous peoples play in our region.

•  International Seminar on Cultural Diversity
Hosted by Brazil in June 2007. This seminar will bring together researchers and policy makers to discuss different topics related to the practices and perspectives in Cultural Diversity. These topics include: cultural diversity in the countries of the Americas; communications and digital convergence; economics of culture and strategic sectors; and globalization and culture. The seminar will also include presentations by OAS Member States on the policies adopted within their countries on these topics.
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•  Preserving Aboriginal Heritage: Tradition and Technical Approaches
A special workshop for the Americas has been scheduled for September 28, 2007 in Ottawa, Canada, within the framework of an international symposium on this topic organized by the Canadian Conservation Institute.
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