Celebrating Europe Day

Can you whistle the European anthem? Do you remember how many member states there are in the EU? Do you know what happened on May 9, 1950? Today is a good occasion to revise all these things and to feel a bit more European.

On May 9, 1950 Robert Schuman presented his proposal on the creation of an organized Europe, necessary to the maintenance of peaceful relations between the European countries.  The Schuman declaration is considered to mark the beginning of the creation of what is now the European Union. For this reason the Community leaders chose May 9 as a symbol of unity and as an occasion designed to foster a sense of belonging among Europeans.

May 9 is an opportunity to organize activities and festivities that bring Europe closer to its citizens, to teach people about the history of EU and to speak in support of European integration.

In these days Europe is also being celebrated outside its borders. Centers of Excellence, universities, think tanks, other non-governmental organizations and the Embassies and Consulates of EU Member States around the US are taking part in Europe Week 2011 (from May 7 to May 13), , hosting events designed to create a better understanding of the European Union. Europe Week events include speeches, seminars and workshops on EU issues; film screenings, concerts and cultural events related to the European Union or to EU Member States.

Check out the Europe Week events: http://europa.eu