Int’l Delegates share what Valentines Day mean to them

Louisville, Kentucky - IVLP European Delegation on CVE, Feb. 9-14, 2024.

The World Affairs Council welcomed five delegates from Europe for an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on “Countering Violent Extremism and Racially and Ethnically Motivated Violent Extremism – Community Strategies,” February 9-14, 2024. Given the difficult work and areas that they work in, we asked them for their thoughts on what Valentine’s Day means to them and in their Culture.

Here are some of their comments (we’re not listing their names to protect their privacy):

From Cyprus

As a common decision with my husband we have decided that we do not celebrate Valentine"s day, because we do not need a specific day to show our love, care, gratitude, companionship, etc. Everyday is a feast! However, in Cyprus many people do celebrate, by going to restaurants, exchanging gifts, and sending flowers. Some people share gifts with their children as well.

As regards to the overall program, I feel very blessed and grateful for this fantastic experience, where among others I met some wonderful and caring people. Thank you very much! Happy Valentines!

From Greece

Delegate 1:
Personally, receiving a Valentine's gesture often brings feelings of joy, appreciation, and warmth. It can create a sense of connection and validation, fostering positive emotions. The thoughtful gesture symbolizes affection, making the recipient feel valued and loved, enhancing their overall sense of happiness. However, I would like to live my Valentine in every other common day!

Delegate 2:
In Greece, Valentine's Day is celebrated similarly to the USA, with couples expressing affection through gifts, cards, and romantic gestures. However, Greek culture also places significance on "Name Day" celebrations, where individuals honor their given names on specific dates, often associated with Saints. In the USA, Valentine's Day is a widely commercialized event, with emphasis on romantic love and the exchange of cards and gifts between partners. Both cultures share the essence of expressing love and affection, but the specific traditions and cultural nuances vary. Specifically, in Greece, Valentine's Day is predominantly focused on romantic love between couples, and it may not extend to a broader celebration involving children or friends as much as it does in the USA. The emphasis is on expressions of love and affection between partners, aligning with the traditional romantic aspects of the day. In contrast, the USA often incorporates a broader celebration that includes expressions of love for family and friends, making it a more inclusive occasion.

Delegate 3:
Exploring the various cultures of the USA, especially in the welcoming city of Louisville in the state of Kentucky, has provided me with a unique opportunity to understand different perspectives and traditions. The genuine hospitality and generosity of the people I encountered not only enriched my travel experience but also taught me valuable lessons.
The opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture allowed me to appreciate the importance of community and connection.
Louisville’s diverse cultural landscape has broadened my horizons, offering insights into the richness of American heritage. The added value lies not just in the sights but in the meaningful connections forged, contributing to my personal growth and understanding of the world.

Delegate 4:
As we celebrate Valentine's Day, let's extend the spirit of love beyond romantic gestures. Just as diverse cultures unite in their expressions of affection, let this day inspire a global sense of community. Together, let's foster unity, embracing differences, and building resilience against discrimination or bias. Love knows no boundaries, and by promoting understanding and acceptance, we contribute to a world where everyone can experience the warmth of love and inclusion.