Lowell – The Dominican community in Lowell commemorated the 181st anniversary of Dominican Independence with the raising of the country’s flag, in what was a vibrant celebration filled with music, culture, and recognition of distinguished figures. The event, organized by Dominicanos en Lowell, also included a blessing from Father William Acevedo.
The celebration was marked by the rhythm of folkloric dance and the energy of the Lechones of Santiago and the Diablos Cojuelos of La Vega, who, thanks to the Asociación Carnavalesca de Nueva Inglaterra, delivered a colorful and traditional performance. Additionally, the event featured a spectacular folkloric dance presentation by Acres Girls.
The event, held at Lowell City Hall on Saturday, March 1, was attended by the city’s mayor, Daniel Rourke, the Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Lowell, Engineer Antonio Almonte, and brought together Dominicans and people of various nationalities in an emotional tribute to Dominican identity.
In addition to the cultural exhibition, the event served as a space to recognize several distinguished individuals for their contributions in various fields. These recognitions highlighted the positive impact of members of the Dominican community in areas such as education, art, entrepreneurship, and community service.
The honorees were: Norma Santana, for her community service; Marleen Santana, for youth empowerment; Carmen Bermúdez, an unwavering advocate for the community; Yvonne Francisco, for her journalistic work in favor of the community; Elvis Ortiz, for promoting culture; and Denise Collazo, pioneer of the first Dominican flag-raising ceremony.
Additionally, Juan de los Santos, for his selfless contributions; Elizabeth González, for her community work and as a Puerto Rican cultural ambassador; Anderson Lizardo, entrepreneur and leader, recognized as a small business owner and for his contributions to the community; and Juan Rodríguez, as a defender of the community and for his vital support.
This festivity, which has become an annual tradition thanks to the efforts of Dominicanos en Lowell, led by Maily Brito, Vladmir Saldaña, and Felicita “Fela” Espinal, as well as Diomailis Rodríguez, continues to strengthen the cultural legacy of the Dominican Republic in Massachusetts and promotes a sense of identity among new generations.
Felicita Espinal, on behalf of the organization, stated: “We find ourselves in this land of opportunity, and we are proud to be Dominicans. Today, we proudly raise our Dominican flag in this city of Lowell, and we feel honored to be Dominicans.”
Words from Mayor Daniel Rourke
The city of Lowell has officially recognized the significance of the Dominican Republic’s independence with a proclamation issued by Mayor Daniel P. Rourke. In the document, the city celebrates the bravery and determination of the Dominican people, who gained independence on February 27, 1844, after a struggle against Haitian rule. Since then, the nation has demonstrated great resilience against various external threats, establishing itself as a sovereign country with its own identity.
This proclamation was issued as part of the Dominicanos en Lowell event, held to commemorate the 181st anniversary of Dominican independence. The event took place on Saturday, March 1, at Lowell City Hall, bringing together community members, local authorities, and representatives of the Dominican government.
During the ceremony, Mayor Rourke highlighted the economic growth of the Dominican Republic, recognizing it as the strongest economy in the Caribbean and one of the fastest-growing in Latin America. This success reflects the effort and perseverance of the Dominican people, who have not only contributed to their nation’s development but also to the communities where they have settled around the world.
Additionally, the document acknowledges the importance of the Dominican community in Lowell, emphasizing its role in building a diverse and culturally enriched city. Thanks to their contributions, the community has driven local development and strengthened the bonds between its members and the rest of the population.
Among the distinguished attendees was the Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Lowell, Engineer Antonio Almonte, who expressed his gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the importance of keeping the traditions and values of the Dominican community alive abroad.
Words from the Dominican Consul
Meanwhile, the Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Boston, Engineer Antonio Almonte, delivered an emotional speech in which he emphasized the importance of national identity and the nation’s historical legacy. He also expressed his honor in participating in this event in the city of Lowell.
Almonte conveyed his gratitude to those present, including people of various nationalities, for joining in the commemoration of independence and paying tribute to the national symbols. He highlighted that, despite being a small country, the Dominican Republic has managed to establish itself strongly on the international stage thanks to values of solidarity, patriotism, and the pursuit of collective well-being.
In his speech, the consul referenced Juan Pablo Duarte and the Trinitarios, acknowledging their leadership in founding the nation and establishing a distinct identity. He explained how, at that time, Dominicans had to reaffirm their cultural and political independence, differentiating themselves from foreign influences to secure their sovereignty.
“The Dominican people had their own language, their own land, and the capacity to contribute to the world. It was this blend of natives, whites, and blacks that, united, built an independent nation with its own government,” Almonte stated.
Finally, the consul emphasized the importance of preserving and strengthening Dominican identity, affirming that independence is not just a historical event but an ongoing commitment to the culture, values, and history that make the Dominican Republic unique.
The event also featured Dominican-style decorations and traditional snacks.
(Story was originally published in Spanish at Lowell Corazon Latino)
