The diplomatic community in Hamburg has embraced me over the past few years and has supported me, not only in my cultural endeavors but also in my personal search for belonging and cultural identity. As an expat and a TCK, I belong to several cultures and tremendously enjoy the rich cultural diversity of the city I now call home. 

This year’s festivities for France’s National Day (la Fête Nationale de France) celebrated at the Galery Melbye-Konan was a beautiful tribute to the country of “le bleu, blanc, rouge,” the Hexagon, “la douce France,” but also to art and culture in general. Surrounded by the modern artworks of the exhibition, “Mouvement,” the celebration included a brilliant beatbox rendition of the French and German National Anthems, French delicacies, and of course, a touching address by the French Consul General, Valérie Lübken, and the Senator for Culture and Media, Dr. Carsten Brosda. 

One part of Senator Brosda’s speech particularly touched me. He said that we do not feel a sense of belonging until someone gives us this feeling and makes us feel at home. This is something I have personally experienced many times. And as far as my sense of belonging in Hamburg goes, this has been of late closely tied to my participation in the activities and functions organized by the diplomatic community of the Hansestadt. 

Thank you, Consul General Lübken for a lovely “Bastille Day” celebration. Thank you Senator Brosda for your insightful speech. Thank you, diplomatic community of Hamburg for your amazing work!