June 22-24, in Poland took place The IX International Forum of Americanists dedicated to the problem of the anti-Americanism observed in the world actually. The Forum was attended by representatives of American Studies centres in Poland and other European countries, the USA, representatives of the U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Poland.
Belarus was represented by Liubou Uladykouskaja. During the plenary session she presented the report “Anti-Americanism and American Studies in Contemporary Belarus” which contained an analysis of the causes and nature of anti-Americanism, a systems view of the origin and development of American Studies in Belarus, the current status of the American Studies and their prospects. Liubou Uladykouskaja tell to the participants of the Forum about a public initiative of the Intercultural Dialogue Centre in the field of American Studies, of a support for American culture. Also she presented the book “Discovering My America, or Why Do the Belarusian need the USA?” and “Belarusian-American Cultural Dialogue: Strategy of Development”, gave several interviews.
When asked about what she liked in the Forum, Liubou Uladykouskaja have replied: “But what we often lack. Firstly, a good organization, a strict schedule, sticking to the Forum’s program. This is normal and completely consistent with my views. Our Center also aims to work this way. But that’s often difficult due to the mental characteristics of our people and their optionality.
Secondly, the interest at Belarus shown by the participants of the Forum, their exceptional kindness to us.
Thirdly, that English was the working language of the Forum (interpretation was not provided). All the participants, including the doctoral students, were fluent in English. However during the debates the participants also used the Polish language.
Fourthly, a real focus on discussing the problem for which the Forum was held, real debates with a strict focus on the problems under discussion.
Fifthly, the special actions for discussing the works of the young scientists on the U.S. issues. Famous and recognized scientists took an active part in these discussions. They did not hold back their comments and suggestions. That’s very good, quite so scientific schools arise and develop.
Sixthly, the questionnaires designed for the participants to evaluate the Forum. That was evident that the event was organized not for reporting how grant money was spent and what for, as it often happens.
Seventhly, solidarity and the mutual support that manifested itself in the contacts we had a chance to establish with the purpose of further cooperation.
The only thing that has confused me a bit that was the amazement the journalists showed when they asked why Belarus not only participates in the Forum, but it also appears as one of the first. I had to ask them to list the arguments for why it should not be.”