It’s my great privilege to be the General Chairwomen of the Norwegian American 17th of May Committee of Greater New York. Entering into my second year, I am really excited by the enthusiasm of the committee, the Norwegian community, and the Bay Ridge community at large!
As the General Chairwomen, I would like to give you a glimpse into my heart, and share my vision for this community, the committee and the future of our parade. Some might think… “Why bother to have a parade? There are not many Norwegians in Brooklyn anymore. Give it up, and move on with your life. What’s left to celebrate?”
Deuteronomy 32:7, tells us to “Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell your elders, and they will explain to you.”
As Norwegian American’s living in New York, we must remember and celebrate days gone by, while looking forward into the future.
Yes, the purpose of our parade is to celebrate the 17th of May-- the Constitution Day of Norway-- and we celebrate this with a grand and wonderful parade. We also must remember to teach the next generation to rekindle the Norwegian “spark” that once burned brightly in our surrounding community, and maintain the influence we have had in New York in the past.
Arlene Rutuelo, General Chairwoman
