Senitor Cano, Acosta and Representatives Alzate, Giraldo host 212th Colombian Independence Day
From the left: Sen. Sandra Cano, the Cultural Preservation Award winner David Molina, Rep. Karen Alzate and Rep. Joshua J. Giraldo at the 2022 Colombian Independence Day celebration at the State House.
STATE HOUSE – Four Rhode Island legislators of Colombian descent hosted the 212th Colombian Independence Day celebration at the State House yesterday.
Sen. Sandra Cano (D-Dist. 8, Pawtucket), Rep. Karen Alzate (D-Dist. 60, Pawtucket), Sen. Jonathon Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket) and Rep. Joshua J. Giraldo (D-Dist. 56, Central Falls) hosted the event celebrating the rich culture and history of Colombia and the impact Colombian-Americans have had in Rhode Island.
“Every year, Colombian American elected officials celebrate the independence of Colombia and this year it has been 212 years since our homeland gained its freedom from Spain. This event is a way to celebrate our culture, to show Rhode Island our rich history of coming to this country and to continue to honor and recognize our heritage.
There are several of us in the General Assembly, and many more in local elected offices, and we are honoring dedicated individuals from the community who have made many contributions to our state and who are proud Colombian Americans, just like we are,” said the legislators.
Along with musical performances and discussing what Colombian Americans have brought and contributed to Rhode Island, the event honored the following individuals:
Hector Vélez received the Life Achievement Award
Gloria Cárdenas received the Civic Engagement & Leadership Award
David Molina received the Cultural Preservation Award
The celebration is viewable on Capitol Television here: