Colombian flag raising in Holyoke honors country’s Independence Day

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – It was a celebration of Colombian culture in Holyoke Tuesday night with any joining forces for the 8th annual Colombian flag-raising ceremony in front of City Hall.

It’s held in honor of Colombian Independence Day, bringing together the community to recognize and celebrate the important role of Colombians in the city.

A proclamation was read by Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia to honor and commemorate the special occasion. An organizer told 22News that the ceremony allows people of Columbian descent to feel a sense of pride and belonging.

“We have been supporting this community for many years, but it’s always been kind of like in the background,” said Stefany Garcia. “We come, we worked in the textile factories, we have police officers, we have nurses. So I wanted to make sure that they knew that was okay for us to be proud of our community as well, even though we’re a small group, but we’re a mighty group.”

Colombian citizens living in Holyoke were also honored for their legacy and contributions. This year’s selected family opened up their home to help a community member in need.

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