On July 30–31, 2025, Boise State University welcomed scholars, artists and community members from around the world for the Zortziak Bat International Symposium – Rowing Together. Hosted by the Basque Studies Foundation, in partnership with the Basque Educational Organization and Basque studies program at Boise State, the two-day gathering explored the evolving expressions of Basque culture in the diaspora through research, creative projects and cultural traditions. Coordinated by John Bieter, Ziortza Gandarias Beldarrain, John Ysursa, and Meggan Laxalt Mackey, the event brought together voices from the Basque Country and its global communities.
Held in the Micron Business and Economics Building, the program invited participants to experience Basque culture in dynamic ways — from “Lertxun Marrak: Basque Tree Carvings of the West” with a 3-D virtual reality component, to the Mintzodromoa Basque Language Conversation Café, and Amarenak, a fashion exhibit inspired by historic Basque clothing. Attendees also contributed to the traveling interactive art project “What Does It Mean to Be Basque?” and celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Oñati–Boise Studies Abroad Program with a book launch.
The symposium was enriched by cultural events including the premiere of “We Are Real Boise” presented by Real Sociedad Soccer Club, performances by Hamaika Buru Txistu Elkartea, and a panel with Lehendakari Imanol Pradales Gil, President of the Basque Government. A highlight was the signing of a historic agreement between the Etxepare Basque Institute and Boise State’s College of Arts and Sciences to strengthen research and transnational ties.
The spirit of “rowing together” resonated throughout, leaving participants inspired, connected, and eager for the next gathering.