HDI’s “U.N. Across America” – U.N. Diplomats Visit Salt Lake City, UT November 30-December 2, 2008

 

December 3, 2008
The Humpty Dumpty Institute brought a delegation (list of participants) of U.N. diplomats to Salt Lake City, Utah, November 30- December 2 (view photos). The group began their trip in Salt Lake City with a tour of the Utah State Capital, a truly elegant architectural masterpiece. The delegation was received by Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert who gave an overview of Utah’s economic, trade, and development policies. The assembled diplomats were extremely interested in possible bilateral trade opportunities between their countries and the State of Utah.

After leaving the Utah State Capital, the group visited the Family History Library . This facility houses the largest genealogical archive in the world. Many of the diplomats were amazed that they were able to find information on ancestors within a matter of minutes. The leadership of the Humanitarian Division of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) then hosted the diplomatic delegation at lunch in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Discussion centered on LDS Charities’ worldwide assistance and development programs and how these programs were being implemented in a number of the countries represented by the delegation. Following the lunch, the group toured the Humanitarian Center where food, clothing, and medical equipment is stored and prepared for overseas shipping. The day ended with an all American dinner at Diamond Lil’s with the diplomats enjoying Rocky Mountain cuisine.

On December 2, Dr. Michael Young, President of the University of Utah welcomed the delegation for a special breakfast. The diplomats held a special dialogue with University faculty and students on the roles of their individual countries in multilateral affairs. After breakfast, the group was received by the LDS President of the Quorum of the Twelve Boyd K. Packer and senior Apostle L. Tom Perry. The meeting focused on the need for greater humanitarian assistance around the world and the importance of religious tolerance in conflict resolution. The visit to Utah continued with an excursion to the Great Salt Lake. The group was treated to an overview of environmental issues by Mr. Dave Shearer, Captain of the Marina. The visit ended with a tour of the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. The delegation left Utah with a better understanding of the diversity of the United States, the generosity of its people, and its magnificent natural landscape.

 

To learn more about this program and HDI, please contact alma.manzo@thehdi.org