WHEREAS, Living in Washington State are people of all ethnicities and backgrounds who share their traditions, histories, and cultures with our state; and
     WHEREAS, Washington State recognizes the great cultural contributions made by the many generations and individuals of Norwegian descent residing in our state, specifically in Ballard, as well as the nation at large; and
     WHEREAS, Since 1889, the greater Seattle area has joined in celebrating Norway's Constitution Day on the 17th of May by hosting a 17th of May, or "Syttende Mai," Festival and parade in Ballard to honor the day in 1814 when Norway declared its independence by signing its constitution; and
     WHEREAS, The Ballard May 17th parade is one of the largest ethnic parades in the United States and the largest May 17th parade outside of Oslo, Norway; and
     WHEREAS, Beginning at 3:00 p.m. in Ballard, family, friends, and community will join together to participate in a wide range of cultural festivities and events in celebration of all that is Norwegian;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the state Senate recognize the 17th of May, 2003, to be Norway's National Day in Washington and encourage all citizens to join in celebrating the culture and heritage of Norway; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the Norwegian 17th of May Committee and to the Nordic Heritage Museum.