Desirée Cormier Smith, the U.S. Special Representative for Racial Equity and Justice, is preparing for her inaugural trip to South Asia, with a particular focus on Sri Lanka.
From December 11 to 15, she will explore the cultural landscapes of Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy, engaging with various communities to strengthen the U.S. government’s dedication to promoting human rights and equality in Sri Lanka.
Throughout her week-long visit, Special Representative Cormier Smith will participate in important meetings with Malaiyaha Tamils, civil society organizations, and government officials. These discussions will highlight the U.S. government’s unwavering support for initiatives that uplift marginalized ethnic communities in Sri Lanka.
One of the highlights of her visit will be the launch of the U.S. Embassy’s English Access Scholarship Program in Nuwara Eliya. This program, funded by the State Department, aims to provide English language skills to talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Special Representative Cormier Smith’s presence at the launch demonstrates the United States’ commitment to using education as a means of empowerment and inclusion.
In an effort to empower the youth of the Malaiyaha Tamil community, Special Representative Cormier Smith will also present awards to 25 students who have successfully completed an intensive three-month bootcamp focused on content creation. This innovative program aims to equip young individuals with valuable job skills, improving their economic prospects and contributing to the overall development of their community.
