Reading celebrates Dominican Republic independence day

Feb. 27—On Feb. 27, 1844, the Dominican Republic won its independence from Haiti.

In front of City Hall on Saturday afternoon, a group of nearly 100 gathered to celebrate the 177th anniversary of that historic event.

The event was organized by Make the Road Pennsylvania. Gabrielina Lopez, Reading organizing director of the group, said it was the 11th year the city hosted a Dominican Republic independence day celebration.

"I feel like I'm in the Dominican Republic right now," she said as she stood surrounded by people waiving mini Dominican Flags. "This is my event, my favorite all year."

Lopez said she feels it's important to recognize the heritage of the Dominicans living and working in Reading. She said that many are local business owners and contribute significantly to to community.

Reading Mayor Eddie Moran, speaking to the crowd, said the event honors the "multi-color, multi-language, multi-cultural" nature of Reading.

"Here in Reading, we wear with pride our diversity, our accents, and tirelessly contribute to making Reading a better place," he said in Spanish. "We honor our Dominican community who, like many others, have overcome the challenge of raising a family far from their homeland while rooting into a new home.

"You stories won't be forgotten."

State Rep. Manny Guzman Jr., who represents Reading in Harrisburg, said the celebration was personal for him.

"The Dominican Republic is a country that I carry in my heart and blood," he said in Spanish. "And I cannot ignore this commemorative date that my father instilled in me to get to know one of the places where I come from."

Guzman told the crowd that he is proud of each of them.

"The most important thing is to believe in ourselves to achieve our personal and institutional goals," he said.

The ceremony concluded with the raising of the flag of the Dominican Republic, accompanied by the playing of that nation's national anthem.