Indonesian Diaspora in Seattle Marks 80th Independence Day with Festive Celebration

Seattle: Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm in Seattle, Washington. The flag-raising ceremony was led by Indonesia’s Consul General in San Francisco, Yohpy Ichsan Wardana, who had only recently assumed his post in the North Western United States three weeks ago.

At least 500 Indonesians from across the Pacific Northwest attended the event, making it not only a reflection on the struggles of Indonesia’s founding heroes but also a living testament to unity and patriotism abroad. Some even traveled from California to join the commemoration in the “Coffee City.”

One such attendee, Syech Idrus from San Bruno, California, said he was willing to make the long journey for the occasion.

“Moments like this are rare. It’s important to meet fellow Indonesians and reaffirm our sense of unity, even though we are far from home,” he said, as quoted in a written statement from the Indonesian Consulate General in San Francisco on Sunday, August 24, 2025.

In his remarks, Consul General Yohpy emphasized that independence should be understood as more than liberation from colonialism.

“Independence also means freedom from ignorance, laziness, and division. Living abroad, we are challenged to maintain solidarity, uphold the nation’s dignity, and contribute positively to our communities. Gotong royong (mutual cooperation) is the soul of Indonesia,” he said.

Quoting Indonesia’s founding father Mohammad Hatta, Yohpy added: “Indonesia will not be great because of a torch in Jakarta, but because of the small candles in villages that light up the darkness.” He urged Indonesian diaspora in the U.S. to become those “small candles” that bring light and honor to the nation.

The celebration was also joined by students from PERMIAS Seattle and the Indonesian Diaspora Network (IDN) Greater Seattle. Its president, Greg, highlighted that the togetherness of the community proved that the Indonesian spirit lives on, wherever Indonesians may be.

Beyond the formal ceremony and joint prayer, the festivities continued with a lively Indonesian Food Bazaar. The aroma of nasi uduk, tumpeng, telur balado, and traditional snacks such as bala-bala, lemper, bolu, as well as sweet drinks like es cendol and es cingcau filled the Seattle air, rekindling fond memories of home.

According to the Consulate’s Social and Cultural Affairs official, Mahmudin Nur Al-Gozaly, the event was more than just a celebration.

“The spirit of independence we celebrate in Seattle is energy that strengthens community bonds, reinforces our national identity, and promotes Indonesia’s positive image abroad,” he said.

Beyond its festivities, Indonesia’s Independence Day abroad carries strategic significance. First, as a ritual of identity, helping diaspora, especially younger generations, stay connected with Indonesia’s cultural and historical roots.

Second, as a form of cultural diplomacy, introducing Indonesian values to the international community. Third, as an expression of Indonesia’s soft power, with diaspora communities serving as bridges of social, economic, and cultural ties between the homeland and the world.

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