South Korea Current Issues

Speech by Don Q. Washington, Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs, at Honorary Doctorate Degree Conferment Ceremony

Beyond Politics

Don Q. Washington
Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs, U.S. Embassy
Doctoral Convocation Ceremony
Dong-eui University
Busan, South Korea

February 18, 2004

Minister-Counselor Don Q. Washington gives speech at the Doctorate Degree Conferment Ceremony

Good morning Dr. KIM In Do, Dr. KIM Im Shik, Dr. CHANG Yang Soo, distinguished faculty, students, family, and guests. It is a great honor for me to be here with you today to receive this priceless award, the Dong-eui University Honorary Doctorate in Political Science.

It is especially meaningful for me to accept this award in the city of Busan. I had the pleasure of serving in Busan almost 20 years ago as the Director of the former American Cultural Center. When I arrived in Busan, I knew very little about Korea, but I was determined to share with Busan people the best of my country - be it American culture, art, or academic talent. Long time residents of Busan can be the judge of how successful I was on that mission, but it is clear to me and those who know me well that my time in Busan had a tremendous impact on my life and career. Through their hospitality, warmth, and their gift of friendship, the people of Busan imparted upon me a deep knowledge of, and respect for Korea and this magnificent city that I carry with me and share with all those I meet wherever I may be.

Although I may now be a Doctor of Political Science and very proud of it, I am not a politician, nor do I have political ambitions. My personal and career aspirations go beyond politics to something that I consider to be even more meaningful and lasting in the realm of international relations. If politics is the art of managing power structures among human organizations, then I strive to master the art of forging common bonds between people of disparate religions, races, and geographic boundaries. Where others find that power needs to be checked and balanced in the midst of human relations, I seek to discover partnerships and friendships to be developed. Where others see irreconcilable differences of opinion and of taste, I seek inspiration and new ideas. Beyond politics, there is an opportunity to work with individuals different from ourselves in harmonious, mutually beneficial relationships. The power of the human race can be found in our diversity. This power can only realize its true potential when we all make a concerted effort to respect our fellow men and dedicate ourselves to international cooperation on all levels of society.

I realize that politics and diplomacy are elemental to the human condition. What concerns me is that more often than not the practice of international politics remains exclusively in the hands of those who call themselves politicians. Practicing the art of statesmanship does not require a diplomatic title and is not limited to negotiating treaties. Regardless of our intentions, each of us serves as a representative of what our respective nations can offer the world. I realized right here in Busan that citizen diplomacy is perhaps the best hope that we have for achieving lasting peace and prosperity. Each child who learns to speak a foreign language - any language - and uses that skill, becomes the bearer of goodwill. Any businessman or artist who collaborates with kindred spirits abroad is sowing the seeds of global prosperity. The tourist who explores cities and villages, beaches and mountains far from home is laying the foundation for mutual respect and understanding among nations.

I am very proud to have bestowed upon me today the title of Doctor of Political Science. It goes very well with the other title I hold - Minster-Counselor for Public Affairs. Once again I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Dong-eui University leadership.

Although I am the one being recognized today for my achievements, it is each of you who will make the biggest difference in the state of our world. My job is to make people understand that connections such as the ones I just described are possible. However, it is globally minded individuals like you, who must make an effort to reach out to people around the world; in doing so you will one day be heralded as the true statesmen of our day.

About twenty years ago, I arrived in Busan as a proud representative of my hometown and my country, Los Angeles, USA. Three years later I left a proud son of Busan, South Korea. I return to Busan today, proud yes, but also humbled by the significance of this day at Dong-eui University, and I sincerely thank you all for sharing this very special day with me. Thank you so very much.