SEATTLE: In a landmark and historic first in Seattle, the flag of India was raised on top of the Space Needle today in honor of India’s 79th Independence Day celebrations. Built in 1962 for the World Fair, the Space Needle stands as a symbol of Seattle’s skyline and epitomizes the tech-driven future of the US Pacific Northwest region.
Consul General of India in Seattle along with Mr. 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.
A community reception was separately hosted by the Consulate at the scenic Kerry Park, which offered sweeping views of the Seattle skyline, with India’s flag on top of Space Needle in the backdrop, where large numbers of Indian American community members turned up to witness the historic sight.
Several US dignitaries graced the Kerry Park reception including U.S. Congressman (WA-9th district) Adam Smith, Chief Justice of the Washington Supreme Court Hon’ble Debra L. Stephens and Superintendent/Director of Seattle Parks & Recreation AP Diaz. Addressing the gathering, US Rep. Adam Smith welcomed the historic celebration, noting that the Indian Tricolor hoisted atop the Space Needle is a tribute to the city’s diversity and the strong bonds between India and the Pacific Northwest.
A vibrant cultural segment featuring national anthems, along with a cultural dance performance showcasing the rich diversity of Indian art forms, and a poetic recital by renowned artist and actor Piyush Mishra followed.
In a special gesture to honor India’s 79th Independence Day in the Greater Seattle area, King County (that covers 39 cities) along with Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma and Bellevue issued official proclamations marking 15 August as India Day.
Separately several iconic buildings in Seattle were also lit up in Indian tricolors. These included the Lumen Stadium, T-Mobile Stadium, Westin, Seattle Great Wheel and Space Needle. The Indian Flag was also hoisted at the prestigious Tacoma Dome, Tacoma City Hall and at the Headquarters of Tacoma Police and Fire Departments. It may be noted that India opened its 6th Consulate in Seattle (Washington) in November 2023 and has since actively deepened its engagements with the US Pacific Northwest.
For more details or any media queries, please contact: Soumith Raju K, Consul (PIC) at +1 (206) 412-0448, pic.seattle@mea.gov.in
Also Read: Indian American diaspora takes leadership role in COVID-19 efforts both in U.S.
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