Origins

Since 1962, The World Affairs Council of Maine (formerly known as a group called Downeast Diplomacy) has been working with community members and elected officials to support cultural exchange between Maine and the world. Throughout the 1970’s, Bea Chapman Minott played a key role in developing the organization by raising funds and hosting international visitors in the state. As WAC has continued to grow, we strive to uphold the mission and promote interest in and education of the relationship between Maine and the world. Our mail goal is to provide a place for Maine people to pursue their interests in international issues and peacefully discuss varying solutions through our programming.

The values of the World Affairs Council of Maine have not changed since its beginning. The ideals of the “Downeast Diplomacy” group are being carried out by the work of our members and volunteers, reflecting practices of diplomacy, hospitality, and cultural exchange with our Maine communities.