The Organization of American States explains that: “Culture and
cultural diversity is a fundamental element of an organization
like the OAS whose 35 member countries span across the two
continents located in the western hemisphere. Bringing cultures
together while preserving the integrity of each unique culture
is important to fostering cooperation and the continued success
of the OAS. The OAS has many programs designed to expand
understanding and awareness of its member’s cultures as well as
safeguarding their distinctive heritages.” For more specific
information on the OAS role in cultural promotion and
protection, please see their website. Culture is extremely
important to the United States and one manifestation of this is
in US support for OAS development work on culture. The United
States always sends exemplary delegations to the Ministerial
meetings on Culture and other related meetings. The United
States also fully participates in many related events and
sponsors a host of development programs in cultu