Iowa City has solidified its identity as a literary hub since the 1930s, fostering renowned writers and international talent through its writers' workshop. However, the State Department's recent decision to cut nearly $1 million in funding for its International Writing Program threatens this legacy. Christopher Merrill, the program's long-time director, views this as indicative of the Trump administration's disregard for cultural diplomacy, stressing the need for soft power in foreign relations, a concept popularized by Joseph Nye as crucial to global influence.
"The Trump administration doesn't think we're America First enough," lamented Christopher Merrill, highlighting a potential shift away from cultural diplomacy under the current administration.
Merrill noted the decision to cut funding indicates a rejection of cultural diplomacy in favor of more aggressive foreign policy tools.
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