U.S Mon blend into MELTING POT

(Kaowao: July 10, 2005)

The Mon community in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joined in the three rivers festival parade along with thousands of Indianans yesterday. 

The 37th annual parade boasted almost 150 parade floats with mayor Richard Graham’s walking the mile long route waving at spectators. The festival is held every year in which the whole community of Fort Wayne participates. 

There were several bands and accompanying groups wearing different color dresses and uniforms.  About (50) Mon people participated wearing their full traditional red sarong, waving their national flag and followed by a group of King Rajadhirat’ soldiers dressed in full uniform. People enjoyed watching the parade from the sidewalk, others were marching on foot.

“Many thanks to the people of Fort Wayne for welcoming us to their community. We worked hard to be able to contribute something back to this community,” declared Mi Non Htaw. It is the first time the Mon community joined in the festival. 

“We gave something back to the people of Fort Wayne, it was our chance to celebrate our Mon national identity with them,” said Mahar Marn, a leading organizer of the Mon community in Fort Wayne. 

The Three Rivers Festival began in 1969 with the aim to promote business and industry in the area and to celebrate Fort Wayne's historical heritage.