The Macedonian flag was ceremoniously raised in New York on Saturday to mark the 35th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Macedonia.
The traditional ceremony was held in New York’s Financial District, in front of the famous Charging Bull statue, in the presence of dozens of members of the Macedonian diaspora and supporters.
Representatives of the United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD), which organized the event, thanked those who attended despite the unfavorable weather conditions and forecasts of severe storms, coming together to commemorate the anniversary of independence.
“With this gesture, we want to remind everyone that we are here and that we are not going anywhere. Just like the weather today, we have had 35 difficult years during which attempts were made to erase us, but they did not succeed, and we are still here.- said Argie Bellio, UMD
The ceremony also featured performances of the Macedonian and American national anthems, sang by Jasmina Mukaetova, as well as a musical performance by singer Andrijana Janevska, who performed the song “Zemjo Mila.”
By raising the Macedonian flag in the heart of New York, the Macedonian diaspora marked the 35th anniversary of independence and sent a message of unity, belonging and pride in their Macedonian heritage.
photo credit: UMD
