During the flag-raising ceremony in New York City, Mayor Eric Adams declared February 26 as Serbian Heritage Day, marking a historic milestone in Serbian-American relations within the city. This proclamation underscores Mayor Adams’ deep respect for the contributions of Serbian communities to New York City’s social, economic, and cultural landscape. Held at Bowling Green Park, a site rich in historical significance for both the USA and New York City, this event represents a groundbreaking moment in the history of Serbian-American relations in New York.
The ceremony saw the symbolic raising of both the Serbian and American flags, accompanied by the respective national anthems. Attendees included representatives from the City of New York, the Serbian Orthodox Church, the diplomatic corps, and the Serbian diaspora. Notable speakers such as Consul General V. Božović, City Commissioners Edward Mermelstein and Manuel Castro, and Columbia University professor Gordana Vunjak Novaković addressed the audience, highlighting the pivotal role of American Serbs in shaping New York City’s progress and expressing confidence in their continued contributions.
Consul General V. Božović expressed gratitude to Mayor Adams for recognizing February 26 as Serbian Heritage Day, noting the significance of this date in Serbian history, commemorating the Serbian Revolution and the adoption of the Sretenje Constitution. He emphasized the historical ties between Serbs and the United States, citing prominent figures from Serbian descent who have made significant impacts in various fields.
The ceremony, led by Lazar Paroški, President of the American branch of the Organization of Serbian Students Abroad, featured traditional Serbian performances by the folklore society “Opančići.” Additionally, the Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia announced the permanent placement of the Serbian flag on its building in Manhattan, marking a symbolic gesture in commemorating Serbia’s national day.
