Most organised displays of nationalism revolve around militarist principles. A large parade, a show of strength, machines designed to kill and maim, polished to perfection pass by at walking pace. Regiments of well drilled soldiers and veterans march past, beneath squadrons of jet fighters and deadly attack helicopters.
The message that governments try to send is “Look! We have guns, our nation is strong”.
I’ve never been a fan of that type of nationalism.
The Grunnlovsdag celebration (Constitution Day 17th of May) here in Gol was an entirely different affair. For starters, Grunnlovsdag celebrates the day in 1814 when Norway, freed from a union with Denmark, created its own constitution. This period of freedom was short lived as Norway was forced to enter a union with Sweden a few months later.
Despite this, 1814 represents the start of the process whereby Norwegians started to define themselves, their culture and the types of political systems they would want to set up when the chance arose. So, Grunnlovsdag celebrates that moment in time and the values encapsulated in the Constitution. Values of equality and freedom.
The main centrepiece of this outpouring of nationalist sentiment is a procession. However, in contrast to other nations, the procession doesn’t contain weapons, just people and lots of small ones at that. Yes the “Toget” is for the children.
It is as if Norway wants to say, “Look! We have children, our nation is strong”.
The result is the most gentle day of nationalist sentiment I have ever taken part in. There were no skinheads waving flags, demanding unequal rights for other people, it was nothing like being in the protestant areas of Belfast during the marching season, nor is it like the commercial frenzy of Koninginnedag in the Netherlands, where everyone in on the streets at the same time, all looking for a bargain.
No, it was just a lovely peaceful day. A day to chat to friends and aquaintances. A day to dodge rain showers and enjoy the sun. A day to drink coffee and eat pølse.
One other thing: I didn’t realise just how many children there are in Gol!
If the strength of a nation is in its children, then the future looks bright for Norway.
A few pictures.The procession arrives at the Helsetun.
The procession snakes its way back towards the centre of town.
Flags in the rain.
