Education
As a symbol of transatlantic friendship, AmerikaHaus NRW hosted its traditional Fourth of July celebration on July 4, 2025. For the first time, the festivities took place in Cologne-Rodenkirchen—on the banks of the Rhine and under perfect summer skies. Among the roughly 200 guests were leading figures from politics, business, culture, and society, as well as 60 students from Atlanta, Georgia, and from Euskirchen and Rheinbach, who are taking part in a German-American exchange program. Following words of welcome from AmerikaHaus Director Viktoria Harbecke and Chairman Dr. Ingo Wolf, Cologne’s Deputy Mayor Dr. Ralf Heinen addressed the audience, calling for vibrant dialogue to sustain the deep and multifaceted ties between Germany and the United States. Guests then enjoyed the chance to connect informally over a classic American barbecue featuring spare ribs and burgers.
Later, Nathanael Liminski — Minister for Federal, European and International Affairs, Media, and Head of the State Chancellery of North Rhine-Westphalia – delivered a keynote speech. He emphasized the broad and enduring foundation of the transatlantic partnership, noting that especially in challenging times, it is unhelpful to take a lecturing tone toward the United States. He reminded the audience of the many Americans who gave their lives for Europe’s freedom and future, while also underlining that true friendships must allow for frank and critical conversations. His remarks were met with warm applause.
The evening concluded on a festive note: after dessert and lively discussions, guests joined a sing-along with Rheinblick, raising their voices to “America the Beautiful” and “This Land Is Your Land,” before a fireworks display over the Rhine to Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” closed the night in true American style.
