Barbie Girl

We have the quite talented band, Aqua, to thank for this number one hit from the mid nineties. Just recently I discovered they are from denmark. So thank you.

watch the music video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQxUQbF0fL4

The last 24 hours have been incredibly busy. Last night I had a workshop on website design for my media class, which was entertaining. However, before that our class walked to the parliament building and met with one of the newest members of congress. This tall, attractive 31 year old brought in a large youth vote, especially because she did alot of campaigning through her facebook and blog. As she talked to us about how she entered the political arena and then was elected to office three weeks later, I couldn't help but realize her last name seemed really familiar. I was right, upon asking my teacher why I recognized her, I was told her mother and uncle are both prominent politicians. So while she may be a hot, hip lady, I only give her so much credit.

Today for my Cross Culturalism in the European Perspective class we travelled to the Immigration and Integration offices of the Ministry. Denmark has been a homogenous society for centuries, and only recently has experienced migrants, mostly from Turkey and the near East (if you are a citizen of the EU, regulations dictate that free movement is allowed). We discussed the avenues for asylum seekers and what amenities and services they are offered, along with the law drafting process. It seems like these ministries are only civil servants to the wishes of the minister, so immigration policies change with administrations. Traditionally however, regulations have been tough.

We also met with the staff of New Times magazine. This magazine is from the perspective of immigrants and their integration into Danish society. Our class is going to cowrite and research the March edition. Should be exciting. We will be interviewing immigrants, researching into asylum centers, and comparing the asylum seeking process with other countries, most likely Canada and Sweden, since they have the most multiculturalist approach to integration and immigrants in general.

Tomorrow we leave for Arhus! We are staying downtown and it should be a great mix of interesting knowledge gathering and fun on the town. Stay tuned!