¡Que viva el Perú!


Last month we celebrated the 189th anniversary of our independence in Peru. We had celebrations in different parts of the state.

Paterson opened its arms to our community and allowed us to have our celebrations, first of all, we had our mass on Saturday July 24th at the cathedral, after that, we went down to the city hall and had our flag raised accompanied by the mayor of Paterson, personnel from the Consulate of Peru in Paterson, Paterson Police Department, representatives from the APRA (Political group from Lima-Peru), guest of honor, Ms. Peru in different categories and many more.

After singing the American anthem, we sang our national anthem and it made us feel like home, at least for a few minutes, because it bring memories back when we used to be in school and even though it was a national holiday, we used to go and compete against other schools by marching and proudly presenting our flag to the tribune, who doesn’t remember those good old days when we used to participate in the greatest ceremony of the year, when we remember our heroes who gave their lives for their country so we can enjoy our freedom. History taught us their great value, they courage, their patriotism and what better moment to remember them than in our independence day. This feeling we carry it on no matter where we are, this feeling is what make us Peruvians, this courage to fight and overcome difficulties so we can achieve our goals.

Follow this ceremony, we went to the Paterson Museum and we had our pisco sour, national drink of Peru, as we gathered this different personalities from our community and with the mayor of Paterson and after listening his speech, I can summarized it by saying and I quote “We have to be united, we are a community, no matter what ethnic group we belong to…” That’s exactly what we need, to be united not only at this celebrations but always so we can grow not only as a community but as human beings.

On Saturday, July 31st, we gathered at Jose Marti Middle School in Union City to celebrate our “Peru Art Expo 2010” and we enjoyed an excellent art exhibition, exquisite folklore display by two Peruvian groups, and quality time with the Peruvian community.

We thank The Peruvian American Committee of Hudson County for their valuable contribution to make this a magnificent event. Also, I would like to mention Mr. Juan Ramiro Torres, a good friend of mine for his effort to put together such a beautiful art

Display in such a short period of time. The Peruvian community was able to enjoy superb pieces of art. Artists from different countries put their paintings for everybody’s enjoyment.

On a personal note, my uncle, Mr. Alfredo Sosa, won his first participation award in United States at this event and I would like to congratulate him for his dedication, persistence and talent. Keep up the good work!