On September 16th, McCarren Park in Brooklyn turned into a yellow sea of solidarity, with 'Freedom Run' shirts everywhere you looked. New York's vibrant Lithuanian community came together with friends and family for the annual '5 for Lithuania' run. This event also marked the back-to-school kickoff for the Lituanistinė Maironio School and served as a much-needed reunion after a long summer apart. This year's color choice? A unifying yellow, representing not just Lithuania but also our brothers and sisters in Ukraine. Hearts across the park beat in unity with Ukraine.
"It's incredibly heartwarming to see so many members of our wonderful Lithuanian community and our friends gathered here. Even more delightful is the presence of new members participating in our community event for the first time!" noted Vaclovas Šalkauskas, the Consul General in New York.
This year, a record number of community members ran for Lithuania. Both young and old took laps of honor carrying flags, while others cheerfully supported the runners by providing water and encouragement. A joyful celebration that we look forward to repeating next year! #ChooseLithuania #5ForLithuania
A big THANK YOU to the Global Lithuania Department (URM Globalios Lietuvos departamentas) for the gifts for our little ones!
Event Organizers: Consulate General of the Republic of Lithuania in New York, New York Lithuanian Professionals (NYLP), Lithuanian American Community New York District, Lithuanian Community of New York, Maironis Lithuanian School of New York, Lithuanian Athletes Club of New York, Neringa and Tauras Tunto Scouts, Church of the Annunciation in New York, Vilnius Health Club “Gilužis”.
