Interview with Anita Friedman, April 24, 2023

Interview Summary

Abstract for Anita Friedman Paraguay, 1983-1986, Home Extension Anita was raised in NYC of German Jewish refugees. Her parents were social justice activists. Anita graduated from Vassar College in psychology. Pre-Service Training prepared her as an home extensionist within the Ministry of Agriculture working in tandem with an agricultural extensionist. Anita shared her perspective on working within a dictatorial political system. She organized women’s 4H type groups on such themes as nutrition, gardening, and first aid. They received certificates and shared the items they produced as part of their graduation exhibition. Anita stressed the cultural importance of togetherness in both integrating into Paraguayan culture as well as its effect on facilitating change. Anita also taught in pre-school and English in high school. She had a toothbrush project and engaged in facilitating fundraisers for the women’s clubs. Anita engaged in individual and group discussions on such topics as family life, family planning, sexuality, and alcoholism. In her third year, Anita worked as a Volunteer Leader. She shared her perspective on developing trust, challenges, and the change process. She also shared her views on the need for the Peace Corps to be more transparent in their operations.

Interview Keyword

Paraguay home extension Mbuyapey bread in water work site Asuncion capital NYC family refugees German Jews activists Vassar College psychology application Stroessner dictator destacamento militar military post Colorado Liberal political parties Domingo Laino Liberal leader Eligio Ayala President stagging Yiua Sati training community Villeta training center Pre-Service Training Kansas Partners of the Americas program Guarani oral language theft Santo Cristal bus company Loma Guazu town terere mate drink Dona China church Virgen de los Dolores host family house posos wells youth companion mondongo cows stomach sopa paraquya chip corn breads transportation Servicio de Extension Agricola SEA Ybycui regional office training certificates manualidades crafts carbon charcoal coquitos flour balls dresses seeds priest Catholic identiy anti Jewish women’s clubs teaching dental project fundraisers boyfriend discussions trust recuerdos gifts health post Colorado party arrested cows In-service training Foz de Iguazu falls PCVL Peace Corps Volunteer Leader role WID conference Francis Asturias Kate Raftery Peace Corps Country Director Republican appointee Bill Kelly staff embezzlement relationships cultural norms change process challenges memorable moment Carmen Cabrera child birth hospital career influence badge of honor Agency transparency

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Interview Usage

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