Kosovo’s Independence Day has now been officially recognized as a commemorative date in the capital of the United States and in several American states.
The Mayor of Washington, D.C., Muriel Bowser, was the first to issue such a proclamation, officially recognizing February 17 as a commemorative date. Her decision was subsequently followed by the states of Arizona, Massachusetts, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, and New Hampshire.
The decision reflects the strong ties between the two peoples and acknowledges the contributions made over the years by Kosovar Albanians in the United States.
According to Albanian-American activist Martin Vulaj, the proclamation of February 17 as an official date by these U.S. states serves as a promotion of the strong relationship between the two countries.
Vulaj emphasized that although individual states do not determine U.S. foreign policy, these proclamations demonstrate the broad support that exists for Kosovo’s independence and sovereignty.
“The recognition of February 17 as Kosovo’s Independence Day by several U.S. states is a symbolic affirmation of the strong relationship between the United States and Kosovo. While states do not set foreign policy, these proclamations reflect broad American support for Kosovo’s independence, democratic development, and sovereignty,” Vulaj stated.
He added that the recognition also honors the Albanian-American community and the work done over the years to strengthen ties between the two nations.
“These recognitions also honor the Albanian-American community, whose advocacy and contributions have been essential in strengthening the bonds between the two countries. For many, these proclamations represent both recognition of Kosovo’s historic achievement and acknowledgment of the important role Albanian-Americans play in civic life in the United States,” Vulaj expressed.
