Rooted in the Seattle, Washington community, the American Romanian Cultural Society (ARCS) represents a grassroots commitment to preserving and celebrating Romanian heritage while fostering genuine connections between Eastern European and American cultures. As a nonprofit association, ARCS operates from the conviction that arts and education are catalysts for social change and mutual understanding. The organization was founded on the principle that storytelling—whether through film, visual art, or educational programming—has the power to open minds and transcend cultural boundaries. ARCS honors the legacy of Romanians who challenged limitations in their own time by supporting contemporary projects that build confidence and pride in cultural identity. Operating in Seattle and extending influence across the West Coast, ARCS recognizes the importance of authentic community relationships and cultural representation. The organization acknowledges the unceded territories of Coast Salish Peoples where it operates, demonstrating a commitment to respectful community presence. Through the Romanian Film Festival, language classes, and cultural education programs, ARCS creates spaces where Romanian Americans and others interested in Eastern European culture can gather, learn, and celebrate shared heritage. The organization's work reflects a deep belief that cultural pride and cross-community understanding strengthen the fabric of American society, particularly on the West Coast where diverse immigrant communities contribute to regional identity.
Seattle, WA