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Sens. Cano, Acosta and Reps. Alzate, Giraldo Host 213th Colombian  Independence Day Celebration at the State House

 

A celebration of the 213th Colombian Independence Day at the State House.

 

STATE HOUSE – Rhode Island celebrated the 213th anniversary of Colombian independence yesterday with a celebration at the State House of Colombian culture and the impact Colombian-Americans have had in Rhode Island.

The event was hosted and paid for by four Rhode Island legislators of Colombian descent: Sen. Sandra Cano (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket), Rep. Karen Alzate (D-Dist. 60, Pawtucket, Central Falls), Sen. Jonathon Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket) and Rep. Joshua J. Giraldo (D-Dist. 56, Central Falls). It is an annual tradition which the legislators started in 2018.

            “Colombia’s history, culture and positive contributions to our state are invaluable. As proud Colombian-Americans, we take great pride not only in celebrating Colombia’s independence, but also in the strong ties Colombia and Rhode Island share,” said the legislators. “Colombian Independence Day is a joyous celebration of freedom. On this important day, it is an honor to come together and recognize the contributions of Colombian-Americans in general, and the work of three individuals specifically who have done so much to make our state better.”

            The event honored the following three Rhode Islanders of Colombian descent who have contributed to the community:

  • Dr. David Upegui Jaramillo received the Life Achievement Award
  • Kassandra Florez received the Civic Engagement & Leadership Award
  • Yoselin Borrero received the Cultural Preservation Award

    The celebration also featured dance performances from three groups (Raices, Grupo de danza de Colombo Americano asociación, and Progreso Latino grupo de danza de la tercera edad), food from local Colombian restaurants and discussions on what Colombian-Americans have brought and contributed to Rhode Island.

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