Flag Raises in honor of Puerto Rican Heritage Month

Nov. 10, 2021 | Matt Conway
mconway@thereminder.com

Mayor John Vieau speaks about the importance of celebrating cultural heritage during the Puerto Rican Heritage Month ceremony.
Reminder Publishing photo by Matt Conway

CHICOPEE – Mayor John Vieau gathered with city officials and the public to raise the Puerto Rican flag in honor of Puerto Rican Heritage Month.

“It’s a great pleasure for me to honor and celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of Puerto Ricans…like all people who have found a home in Chicopee, Puerto Ricans are helping to shape our city for the present and future,” said Vieau, who spoke on the importance of heritage pride and support as a person of Polish and French descent.

Chairperson of the Chicopee Cultural Council and communal artist Johnny Miranda-Alomar also spoke at the flag raising, highlighting the importance of honoring his and other community member’s cultural pride. “That same love I have for Chicopee, I have for Puerto Rico. Many come to the United States for new opportunities, but we always have our country in our heart,” said Miranda-Alomar. The two were joined by state Rep. Jake Oliveira, newly elected Ward 3 City Councilor Delmarina Lopez and At-Large City Council candidate Shirley B. Arriaga to raise the national flag.

Share this: