Amid native dances from the islands of Java and Sulawesi, eating, drinking and delegate presentations, two nations came together tonight — one in celebration of the other’s independence. Although not occurring on the official anniversary date (but close enough) dignitaries from Houston City Council representing Mayor Bill White’s office, and the state of Texas (with U.S. Congressional representation) gathered at Houston’s Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia amid country officials, neighboring consulate members and invitation-only attendees to help celebrate 63 years of freedom.

On August 17, 1945, Indonesia, a country comprised of more than 17,000 islands and today more than 240 million people, declared independence from The Netherlands after nearly 130 years.

The United States and Indonesia have a close relationship, one Consul General Kria F. Pasaribu tonight called that of friendship, noting a mutual respect and recognition of freedom. He talked about the growing economy and population as well as the positive political influences in the nation.

The country is unified through diversity — a multitude of people with various cultures, languages, beliefs and backgrounds that stand together to celebrate the one thing each and every person has in common: independence; a philosophy very much the same as that of those in the United States.

Opening ceremonies included welcoming remarks from U.S. Congressman Al Green and representatives from the offices of White and U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, each of whom concluded their accolades of the country’s accomplishments with Congressional certificate presentations. Houston City Councilwoman Jolanda Jones, speaking on behalf of White’s office, noted the official declaration that Aug. 17 is now known citywide as Republic of Indonesia Day — I wonder if this will become a city holiday where offices, schools and and federal businesses shut down in recognition.

So, congratulations, Indonesia, and happy Independence Day.

Semoga Indonesia akan terus terusan lebih kehadapan lagi

This entry was posted on Tuesday, August 19th, 2008 at 11:42 pm and is filed under Out and About. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.