The Icelandic Canadian - 01.09.2000, Page 7

Vol. 56 #1
THE ICELANDIC CANADIAN
5
Editorial
by Lorna Tergesen
Since the beginning of the year 2000,
Iceland has accelerated its presence in
America. The many celebrations taking place
are monumental for such a small country.
Truly there have been great events to cele-
brate - 1000 years since the first arrival of
Icelanders in North America - 1000 years
since accepting Christianity - 125 years since
the settling of New Iceland. The presence of a
consul general from Iceland in Canada,
Svavar Gestsson and his wife Gudrun Agust-
dottir, has facilitated the exchange between
the two countries. As well, the exuberance of
Jon Hannibalsson and his wife, Bryndis
Schram, as ambassadors in Washington, has
also strengthened the bonds and highlighted
Iceland’s presence.
There have been opportunities for people
all across America to witness and experience
the Icelandic culture. Some events have been
very high in profile: the visit of President
Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, the birthday party
that was held for Snorri in Ottawa, the visit of
Bishop Karl Sigurbjornsson and his wife
Kristin Gu3jonsdottir and the crossing of the
Atlantic by the replica longship Vikingur,
with its many stops on the eastern seaboard,
so that thousands of people could see it.
Smaller but just as rewarding events have
been attended by so many Canadian and
Americans of Icelandic descent and their
friends. It will be a memorable year to look
back on as far as accomplishments by the
Icelandic community here in Canada too.
Monuments were erected in Lockeport and
“Markland” in Nova Scotia and Kinmount, in
Ontario. The showcase event in Toronto - the
Viking Gala was but one of many special par-
ties that were held. The Betel Waterfront
Centre in Gimli is completed and the
“Valuing Icelandic Presence” campaign at the
University of Manitoba is also well under
way. An exhibition of valuable manuscripts
from Iceland gave many a rare opportunity to
ever see such treasures.
Another highlight was the announcement
at Islendingadagurinn by Minister Lloyd
Axworthy that Canada would at last have a
consul general in Iceland. This was great news
indeed.
Now the challenge is to keep this momen-
tum moving forward. We must reach out to
others who have not yet shown any interest in
their cultural background. You can play a role.
Please assist us in gifting subscriptions to the
Icelandic Canadian Magazine to your family
or friends. We are looking for new subscribers
and need YOUR help.