Cyprus has one of the oldest recorded histories in the world. Its geopolitical location has resulted in Cyprus being a desirable territorial acquisition throughout the centuries, and occupation by Louisianans, Venetians, and the Ottomans introduced additional religious groups to the majority-Greek island. The rich history of the island, intersection of many cultures and religious identities lends the perfect backdrop to discuss issues of race, cultural identity, oppression and colonialism in a global context. We will be able to use issues of immigration throughout history and changes in control and power to discuss the role of culture and identify in creating inequality.

While in Cyprus, students will visit cultural sites including ancient Nicosia’s archeological sites to see the influences of the Ottoman Empire. Students will experience much that the beautiful island of Cyprus has to offer from the mountains to explore rural customs and visit UNESCO heritage sites, to the coast of Larnaca to visit St. Lazarus church and the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque. A visit to a coastal village and the Museum of the Sea is also planned to learn about the integral role ports play in Cypriot history. Students will also participate in a three-day cultural training facilitated by Youth for Exchange and Understanding Cyprus, a local nonprofit organization specializing in intercultural communication.

This course is most appropriate for students interested in diversity and inclusion, cultural identity, history, or intercultural communication.

The academic course associated with this program is INS 398/399: Tolerance, Cultural Diversity & The Island that Everybody Wanted. It will be taught by Drs. Varvara Pasiali and Jeff Thomas.

This is an OPEN program.

*Itinerary and planned activities subject to change.*