LAWRENCE — Puerto Rican flags waved in the wind and traditional dances filled the room as Hispanic heritage took center stage Friday. It was the city’s marking of the midway point of its monthlong celebration of culture and community.
The event brought Lawrence residents, and local and state officials together to honor Puerto Rican culture and Hispanic Heritage Month with festivities outside City Hall.
Dozens formed a crowd to witness the Puerto Rican flag raising, where Mayor Brian DePena was joined by state officials and representatives of the Puerto Rican movement for the ceremony.
“It was a moment to celebrate the culture, roots, and contributions that the Puerto Rican community brings to our city,” DePena’s office wrote.
Spectators gazed at the flag was lifted overhead. Many carried miniature Puerto Rican flags and wore prideful expressions in honor of their heritage.
Sen. Pavel Payano attended the ceremony as did the Rev. Jefte Santos of MAJES Church in Lawrence, who offered a prayer during the flag raising. DePena also presented a citation to Geovanna Reys, president of the Puerto Rican Movement.
Celebrations continued later at The Center on Haverhill Street, where Payano hosted an evening of recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.
The free event opened its doors to the community and once again brought together elected officials, community members and more — many of which were awarded for their contributions to the city and region.
Payano offered the crowd a warm welcome before folks belonging to the Puerto Rican community received citations and recognition for their work. Those honored included Quilty Morgan, Dario Silverio, Zoa Mendez, Sonia Terbullino, Martha Velez and Domingo Melendez, among others.
Dinner was served at the event, and guests were treated to a dance number performed by members of the Ritmo Canela Academy of Performing Arts.
Coupled together, the two Friday events placed a spotlight on Lawrence’s Puerto Rican community and other Hispanic heritages, saluting their strong presence and contributions in the city.