Recognizing and honoring the Puerto Rican Day Parade on the occasion of its 60th Anniversary, within Philadelphia's Puerto Rican and Latino Community.

WHEREAS, The Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations, Inc., known as “Concilio,” is the oldest Latino organization in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and remains dedicated to serving the economic, social, and political needs of the Latino Community; and

WHEREAS, The Puerto Rican Day Parade is organized by the Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations of Philadelphia (Concilio), and is scheduled for Sunday, September 29th, 2024, along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This year's theme, "Alza tu Bandera," aims to inspire people to raise their flag and celebrate its significance. The parade is a cherished tradition celebrating the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of the Puerto Rican community; and

WHEREAS, This event includes traditional art, music, and dance, and provides a unique opportunity for the Latino Community to honor and enjoy its rich and diverse culture; and

WHEREAS, The festivities of Puerto Rican Festival Week are kicked off each year by the raising of the Puerto Rican flag at City Hall. The annual Awards Gala ceremony has become one of the most anticipated social events among Puerto Ricans in the region, and gathers together the area's Puerto Rican leaders, government figures, corporate executives, media personalities and heads of community-based organizations; and

WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s Puerto Rican Day Parade is a cultural jewel of the Puerto Rican community, creating an opportunity for Boricuas to come together in cultural celebration with the entire City of Philadelphia. This colorful and dynamic parade promotes unity and education, while preserving and promoting the culture and heritage of the Puerto Rican people; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA,

Hereby recognizes and honors the Puerto Rican Day Parade on the occasion of its 60th Anniversary. Congratulations!

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be sent to Grand Marshal Alba Martinez, as evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.

End