Universal Language

Ethnic paraders sing and dance their way down Madison Avenue

By JULIA MARTIN

As he watched groups from some 80 countries march down Madison Avenue in the 15th International Cultures Parade, Joseph Costantino, a native of Malta, remarked, "E pluribus unum, from the many, one--a tribute to America's motto."

The three-hour parade from 41st to 25th Street on Sept. 10 was sponsored by the International Immigrants Foundation and International Cultures Mission, a Non-Governmental Organization at the United Nations, for which Costantino is director of special events and multicultural programs.

The parade theme was "Celebrating Unity Through Diversity."

The Panamanian Marching Band, wearing white uniforms and Panama hats, kicked off the parade and played America's national anthem as it passed the reviewing stand between 28th and 29th streets.

Among the largest groups was the Vietnamese contingent, participating for the first year. The group stretched for two blocks, with the Vietnamese looking very proud of the freedom they've found in this country.

The traditional Chinese symbol of the dragon made its appearance twice--one a colorful image formed by two men, and the other a long line formed by close to 20 men, weaving back and forth along the avenue in an entertaining, colorful dance.

A group that touched the hearts of many spectators was the Filipino Teatro Silencio, whose 20-some members cannot hear or speak. They danced down Madison Avenue, with a special performance at the reviewing stand of "Let There Be Peace on Earth."

Also making their first appearance were groups representing Bosnia and Herzegovina.

While other parades celebrate a specific ethnic group, Costantino pointed out, the annual International Cultures Parade is a parade of inclusion. The event was designed as a conclusion to last week's Millennium Summit at the United Nations.

"We believe that dance and music are the most eloquent language, one that all countries understand," Costantino said. "The strength that's found in diversity has helped overcome many of the challenges in the history of this country.

"The parade celebrates our differences just as exhilaratingly as it extols the talents and contributions of men and women from different backgrounds who helped us achieve our goals."

During the parade, a total of 20 volunteers conducted a voter registration drive along the route to enable immigrants to vote in the November election. An estimated 2,000 forms were distributed.

Several of the colorful floats had the slogan, "Immigrants Today, Citizens Tomorrow." Costantino explained that some persons on the committee are working to legalize immigrants.

A most impressive part of the parade, Costantino said, was the international contingent of 185 children, some as young as 3 years old, "marching down Madison Avenue with their flags, the parents proudly along the sidewalk watching them."