BY: Liliana Rocio, Senior Editor for World Liberty TV, @ Northern Boulevard Queens NY, Sun July 21st 2024

Jackson Heights come alive with Colombia’s vibrant colors, sounds, and spirit on Sunday, July 21, 2024.

The Colombian Day Parade marches along Northern Blvd from 69th Street in Jackson Heights to 89th Street in Corona.

This annual celebration marks Colombian Independence Day was filled with cultural pride and community festivities.

Hundreds of Colombian Americans danced through the streets of Jackson Heights, Queens on Sunday for the annual Colombian Independence Day Parade.

It’s a celebration of more than 200 years of independence from Spanish rule., “Celebrate the freedom of Colombia. Our people are really happy,” Jackson Heights, NY. resident Jose Suarez told WLTV.

It’s also a display of the richness and beauty of Colombian culture.

The roots of Colombian Independence Day trace back to a pivotal moment in history. Amidst colonial rule, Latin America, including Colombia, faced oppression under a strict caste system imposed by Spanish rulers.

The struggle for independence gained momentum in the early 19th century, fueled by events like Napoleon’s invasion of Spain and the imprisonment of King Ferdinand VII.

Leaders like Simón Bolívar rallied the people in their fight for freedom, culminating in the historic Battle of Boyacá in 1819.

The Colombian flag, with its bold yellow, blue, and red colors, symbolizes the nation’s rich resources, seas, rivers, and the blood shed by patriots in the quest for independence.

This symbolism resonates deeply during the Colombian Day Parade, where the community gathers to honor their heritage and commemorate the sacrifices of their ancestors.

Beyond its historical significance, the Colombian Day Parade in Jackson Heights and Corona is a testament to the vibrant Colombian community’s unity and pride.

The parade route showcases traditional Colombian music, dance, and attire and features local businesses and organizations that contribute to the neighborhood’s cultural tapestry.

Festival Independencia Orgullo Colombiano:  Following the parade, the festivities continued with the Festival Independencia Orgullo Colombiano at Flushing Meadows Corona Park on Sunday, July 21, 2024. This event offers a deeper dive into Colombian culture through food, music performances, and arts and crafts, creating a celebration weekend with community spirit.

As we celebrate Colombian Independence Day, we reflect on the journey toward freedom and the vision of unity espoused by Simón Bolívar and other patriots.

The Colombian community in Jackson Heights and Corona embraces their heritage while looking towards a future of inclusivity and progress, echoing Bolívar’s belief that freedom is for all people, regardless of race, origin, or status.

Hundreds marched in the Colombian day parade, many political leaders were on hand, which included: Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Senator Jessica Ramos, New York Assembly Member, Jessica González-Rojas, was the Madrina of the parade.

Other policical leaders in attendance included: Assemblywoman Catalina Cruz, Hiram Monserrate, Democratic District Leader Assembly District 35 and Ismael Malave candidate for New York City Comptroller.

NYPD Marching band, played the music, NYPD Latin Society Members were in attendance, Salsa Organizations and so many more. Close to 100,000 people lined up the streets of the parade.

See more about Colombian day parade 2024, in our World Liberty TV, Political channels by clicking here.