3 days ago
- Politics
- United News of India
Indian Tricolor hoisted on Seattle's Space Needle for the first time
Seattle, Aug 16 (UNI) In a historic and landmark event, the Indian national flag was hoisted atop Seattle's iconic Space Needle for the first time ever, in celebration of India's 79th Independence Day, the Consulate General of India in Seattle said in an official statement.
The Consul General of India in Seattle, along with Bruce Harrell, Mayor of Seattle, and other select dignitaries from Seattle city leadership, joined in the historic occasion and acknowledged the contributions of the Indian American diaspora in shaping Seattle's journey as a tech hub in the US Pacific Northwest, the release added.
The flag hoisting marked a proud moment for the Indian American community, reflecting the deepening ties between India and the region.
The ceremonial event was attended by the Consul General of India in Seattle, along with Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and several senior members of the city's leadership.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell acknowledged the contributions of the Indian American diaspora in shaping Seattle's emergence as a major technology hub.
Following the hoisting, a large community reception was held at the scenic Kerry Park, offering panoramic views of the Seattle skyline—with the Indian Tricolor flying high on the Space Needle in the background. A significant number of Indian American community members gathered at the park to witness and celebrate this momentous occasion.
The reception saw the presence of several distinguished US dignitaries, including Congressman Adam Smith (WA-9th District), Chief Justice of the Washington Supreme Court Debra L. Stephens, Seattle Port Commissioner Sam Cho, and Seattle Parks & Recreation Director AP Diaz.
Addressing the crowd, Congressman Smith hailed the event as a "powerful tribute to the diversity of the Pacific Northwest and the enduring friendship between India and the United States".
The celebration also featured a vibrant cultural program that included the national anthems of both India and the United States, traditional dance performances showcasing India's rich artistic heritage, and a poetic recital by renowned actor and artist Piyush Mishra, the statement added.
In a further gesture of recognition, King County, which comprises 39 cities along with Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, and Spokane, issued official proclamations declaring August 15 as 'India Day,' underscoring the community's growing influence and cultural significance.
To commemorate the occasion, several iconic landmarks in Seattle were illuminated in the colors of the Indian flag, including Lumen Stadium, T-Mobile Park, the Westin Hotel, the Seattle Great Wheel, and the Space Needle itself.
The Indian flag was also raised at the Tacoma Dome, Tacoma City Hall, and at the headquarters of the Tacoma Police and Fire Departments.
It is worth noting that India opened its sixth consulate in the United States in Seattle in November 2023.
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