Puerto Rican Flag Raised in Camden: A Celebration of 68 Years of Culture, Community, and Pride
Image of Puerto Rican Flag Raising in Camden courtesy of City of Camden
BY MELISSA MORALES | For AC JosepH Media
CAMDEN – On Monday, June 2, the steps of Camden City Hall came alive with culture, history, and pride as the Puerto Rican flag was raised high for the 68th year at the city.
Residents, families, and leaders gathered at 520 Market Street to celebrate more than just a flag, they came together to honor generations of resilience, contributions, and the deep roots of the Puerto Rican community in Camden.
Under a bright sun, the flag waved proudly as music filled the air and people from all walks of life stood side by side in solidarity. For many attending the celebration, it felt like home for so many.
Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen shared heartfelt words about growing up downtown and the pride Puerto Ricans had back then. Carstarphen said how beautiful it was to see that same energy in the community now.
The mayor spoke of unity, cultural pride, and the importance of honoring the voices and stories that have shaped Camden’s neighborhoods.
Felix Moulier, president of the San Juan Bautista Parade, also addressed the crowd with passion and pride. He reminded the attendees that the flag is not only a symbol of Puerto Rico, but also a symbol of survival, identity, and legacy.
Elected officials, and long-time residents spoke with emotion, each sharing personal reflections of what it means to celebrate this moment year after year.
The speeches resembled emotional affirmations of who we are as a people and what we’ve built in Camden.
The ceremony also served as a powerful reminder of what’s ahead. Excitement is building for the 68th Annual San Juan Bautista Parade and Concert, happening Sunday, June 29.
The parade, one of the largest parades celebrating the Puerto Rican cultural in New Jersey, kicks will kick off at noon and will lead into a waterfront celebration at Wiggins Park with a live concert featuring none other than Brenda K Starr at 3 p.m.
As the ceremony wrapped up, the smell of pastelillos filled the air. Everyone who stayed was treated to one. A perfect warm reminder that culture lives not just in our flags and festivals, but also in our food, our music, and the way we come together.
Monday’s flag raising was a reminder of the Puerto Rican’s community’s indelible impact on the Camden community for nearly seven decades — and how they are carrying that pride forward, every single day.
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