Philadelphia’s Dominican Community honored the Dominican Republic’s Independence Day with a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall’s Dilworth Park on Thursday, February 27. Hosted by Dominicanos in the Delaware Valley, with support from “Instituto de Dominicanos y Dominicanas en el Exterior” (INDEX) and the Dominican Consulate in Philadelphia, the annual event recognized the contributions of the Dominican community to the city’s culture and economy. Telemundo 62 reporter Shaira Arias, who is of Dominican origin, served as the mistress of ceremonies.

The Alma Dance Group from Olney High School opened the event with a performance celebrating traditional Dominican merengue music and international hits from Juan Luis Guerra. Attendees raised their flags, sang, and danced along to the performance.

Yocasta Lora, co-founder of Dominicanos in the Delaware Valley, spoke about the growing role of Dominican businesses in the city. “We are Dominican, and we are contributing to the growth of this city,” Lora said.

Ngan Tran, Director of Multicultural Affairs for the City of Philadelphia Office of Immigrant Affairs, read a proclamation from the mayor, officially declaring February 27, 2025, as Dominican Republic Independence Day in Philadelphia. The Board of Dominicanos in the Delaware Valley accepted the proclamation.

Pennsylvania State Representative Danilo Burgos and Vice Consul of the Dominican Republic in Philadelphia, Susan Cedeño, also spoke at the event. They highlighted the impact of Dominicans in the region and the importance of celebrating their heritage.

After the ceremony, attendees gathered for a reception at Mamajuana Restaurant, where they enjoyed Dominican food, drinks, and music. Amy Eusebio, former Executive Director of the Office of Immigrant Affairs, was recognized as Dominican of the year. The event also demonstrated the growing influence of the Dominican community in Philadelphia, particularly in the business sector.