Global New Orleans

The mission of Global New Orleans is to foster greater cross-cultural understanding, cooperation and goodwill between the people of New Orleans and the international community through personal and professional exchange and engagement.

Since 1944, Global New Orleans has been at the heart of community diplomacy in our region. What began as a U.S. Department of State reception center to welcome international visitors has grown into a vibrant, locally-rooted organization that connects people across cultures and borders. Over the years, we've been known by different names-like the Council for International Visitors of Greater New Orleans and the New Orleans Citizen Diplomacy Council-but our mission has remained the same: to build understanding, cooperation, and friendships between New Orleans and the world.

For more than 80 years, we've welcomed international visitors on U.S. Department of State exchange programs to South Louisiana, creating space for shared learning, storytelling, and connection. Today, Global New Orleans continues to offer our community meaningful ways to explore world cultures and celebrate the global spirit that makes New Orleans so unique.

Testimonials

New Orleans offered valuable insights into how an effective emergency response system is built . Seeing how an entire city can come together in times of crisis deeply resonated with me. I plan to apply this knowledge to help shape a legal and institutional framework in Georgia that is both resilient and inclusive." Ana Beridze, Professional Fellows participant (May 2024).

"I came to the United States with a blank slate and I am delighted to take back a beautifully painted canvas of learnings, memories and friendships. In India, we say, "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam; ONE WORLD FAMILY!" Subhangi Sahal, IVLP participant (April 2024).