Gaspee Days a link between historical past and hopeful future

Mayor Scott Avedisian
Posted 6/16/15

Editor’s note: These are the remarks of Mayor Scott Avedisian that were delivered Saturday morning at the Gaspee Ecumenical Service held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Pawtuxet.

The traditions …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

E-mail
Password
Log in

Gaspee Days a link between historical past and hopeful future

Posted

Editor’s note: These are the remarks of Mayor Scott Avedisian that were delivered Saturday morning at the Gaspee Ecumenical Service held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Pawtuxet.

The traditions of Gaspee Days – from those that were in place at the first celebration a half-century ago, to those that have been added over the years – have become as interwoven into the character of our community as the events off the shores of Narragansett Parkway in 1772. They provide a tangible link between our storied past and our hopeful future as well as a vital connection to the brave patriots who risked everything in the name of freedom. 

This Ecumenical Service has been an important part of our annual celebration of Gaspee Days, reminding us of one of the bedrocks – freedom of religion – upon which our country was founded. Today, we are reminded again and again – watching events unfold around the world – how very precious that freedom is, and how grateful we must always remain that we live in a nation where that freedom is cherished and protected.

Faith has always, from the time of the Revolution, been an important part of our collective identity. And, it seems nowadays, we need faith – and God – more than ever. I thank Father Harrington Gordon for his efforts to ensure that this service remains one of the highlights of Gaspee Days, so we can give thanks for all the freedoms we enjoy.

The continued presence of the Pawtuxet Rangers – without whom Gaspee Days would not have the same impact – provides a direct link between this generation of Rangers and all those who came before them, protecting and serving our village so selflessly. Seeing them march down Narragansett Parkway – and watching them during the Colonial encampment – gives us a glimpse into a bygone era and evokes our appreciation for the many who helped to shape the future of a fledgling nation, state, and community. My thanks to Ron Barnes and the Rangers for their efforts to bring their original Charter home to Pawtuxet for us all to appreciate and enjoy. 

Many of us here delight in the fireworks display, which has become a highly anticipated – and perennial favorite – a gathering of family and friends for a spectacular evening that certainly calls to mind Fourth of July events. Celebrating our independence from the Crown, and, in this case, all the people whose acts of rebellion led to the birth of a new and mighty nation.

Memorial Day weekend, as you know, brings thousands to Narragansett Parkway, which teems with vibrancy, laughter, and the creativity of the vendors who line the street. The artwork, the crafts, the specialty items all bring to mind the freedom of expression, freedom of speech, that Americans hold dear. It is sobering to think that there are still places across the globe where such audacity – to speak one’s mind and express one’s beliefs freely and openly – is punished harshly, swiftly, and frighteningly. As we pause to admire the talent of people from around the region, it is incumbent upon us to reflect on those who have made these rights our birthright. 

The parade – one of the culminating events of Gaspee Days – is a joyous one and one that truly brings out the best of our community. It shows our patriotism, our belief in each other, generosity of spirit and the love of space and history that makes Warwick one of the best places to live in the nation. As I walk down the parkway each year, I see in my mind’s eye those of years ago, the small children clutching and waving American flags who are now themselves adults, ensuring that these traditions will endure well beyond our time here.

Finally, Gaspee Days is about people. The hardworking, dedicated, and enthusiastic people who give of their time and talent throughout the year – and, in many cases, year after year – to bring this fantastic, unique celebration and commemoration to our neighborhood. To all of the Gaspee Days Committee members, past, present, and future, I thank you for investing so much in all of us, and for preserving and honoring the brave individuals, who, centuries ago, showed us that good people, with honorable intentions, can accomplish remarkable and long-lasting good for themselves and those they will never even know.

It has been an honor to join all of you today. Thank you again to Trinity Episcopal Church and Father Mitch Lindeman for their tremendous support.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here