BP Gibson hosts second annual Puerto Rican Flag Raising Ceremony

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with the Bronx Puerto Rican Parade Inc. and the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, hosted the second annual Puerto Rican Flag Raising Ceremony on Thursday, June 5, at Lou Gehrig Plaza. The event celebrated Puerto Rican pride and culture, bringing together the community in a powerful display of unity.

Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

This year’s theme, “Plantando Bandera”—which translates to “Planting Roots”—honored the generations of Puerto Rican Bronxites who have made the borough and the United States their home.

Their enduring presence—through activism, entrepreneurship, music, cuisine, and family traditions—has left a profound mark on the cultural and civic fabric of the Bronx, New York City, and the nation.

“The Bronx is home to one of the largest Puerto Rican communities in the country, and this flag raising is a powerful symbol of visibility, pride and belonging,” Gibson said. “We are proud to honor the strength, resilience and rich culture of Puerto Ricans in our borough and beyond. This ceremony officially kicks off a season of celebration, remembrance and unity.”

Borough President Gibson addresses the audience. Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

This ceremony also marks the beginning of the Puerto Rican parade season in the Bronx and across New York City. The 60th Annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade is set to take place on Sunday, June 8, in Manhattan. The Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, June 14.

“Let us carry the pride of this day in our hearts! Everyone is fostering unity, celebrating our achievements and continuing to build brighter futures for everyone. Que Viva Puerto Rico! Que Viva Bronx, and may our flag fly high with honor and pride,” Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade President Maribel Mercado said.

Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade President Maribel Mercado speaks at the Flag Raising Ceremony. Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

Mercado was also presented with a proclamation by Gibson. Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

“We are very proud and honored to receive this proclamation from the Bronx Borough President. We always enjoy the presence of the Bronx community in our parade each year, and we look forward to celebrating our culture and heritage on June 8,” National Puerto Rican Day Parade Vice President Miguel Guadalupe said.

National Puerto Rican Day Parade Vice President Miguel Guadalupe addresses the audience. Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

The Flag Raising Ceremony also featured remarks from Grammy Award-winning musician Bobby Allende, who was also presented with a citation of merit from Borough President Gibson. Additionally, recording artist Luis Damon was on hand to perform La Borinqueña, the Puerto Rican National Anthem and the United States National Anthem.