Celebrating Frisian Identity at the International Frisian Day
Emden's renowned Johannes a Lasco Library holds a distinctive gathering on Saturday – the inaugural International Friesland Day. This event will not only attract East, West, and North Frisians, but also those from Groningen, eager to discuss their shared past, present, and future. And let's not forget about the Frisian expats, some of whom have been living in the United States, Australia, or South America for centuries, who will participate via a live conference call.
Statistics show around two million Frisian Americans alone, with a strong interest in their roots. André Freimuth, the event organizer, states, "Americans are highly curious about their backgrounds. There's even an 'East Frisian Genealogical Society of America'."
Diversity beings in abundance as world-renowned figures of Frisian descent, much like Mata Hari, Peter Steuvesand, Henri Fonda, and Wolfgang Petersen, shall grace this momentous occasion. Freimuth, along with his supporters, eagerly anticipate this big day, asserting, "It was long overdue for the Frisians to unite. After all, where else in Europe can you find a nation divided into three regions?"
Tickets for this compelling event, available at the venue's on-site ticket office, cost 20 euros each. Notably, at 7 pm, the event will be live-streamed to the United States.
As you muse upon the East Frisians' indomitable spirit of resistance and resilience, the first International Friesland Day promises to bridge the gap between Frisians worldwide, allowing for shared reflections, strengthened connections, and a hopeful outlook toward the future.
