Page 12 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, SEpTEmbER 15, 2023 Everett celebrates Brazil’s Independence with a Flag Raising and Festival Community celebrated with music, food, dancing and more Executive Director of the Brazilian Women’s Group Heloisa Galvão. T he City of Everett raised the Brazilian flag on Saturday, Sept. 9, at City Hall in recognition of the country’s 201 years of independence. Immediately after, attendees paraded from City Hall, down Broadway, to the School Street municipal parking lot for a festival to celebrate the City’s Brazilian-American community. The City of Everett’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Cathy Draine, was pleased to be joined by fellow speakers Brazilian Women’s Group Executive Director Heloisa Galvão, State Representative Judith Garcia, Ward 2 Councillor Stephanie Martins and Deputy Consul for the Consulate General of Brazil in Boston Júlio Cesar de Jesus. After the delivery of remarks, vocalist Natalia Hubner performed a rendition of the United States National Anthem, which was followed by the Brazilian National Anthem as the Brazilian flag was raised to fly high at City Hall. Pastor Bruno Silva from Universal Church gave the closing prayer to close out the ceremony. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the attendees – led by performers – took part in a procession from City Hall down Broadway to the School Street municipal parking lot, where the festivities took place. All who attended were able to partake in food from local vendors, learn more about resources that are available to the community and dance to live music performed by various acts. “I’m glad we were able to once again recognize and celebrate our Brazilian community here in the City of Everett,” said Mayor Carlo DeMaria. “Thank you to everyone who contributed and helped make this event a huge success.” Face painting was a hit with younger attendees. Marlene Westerman attended the Brazilian Independence Festival. Trio Let’s Vamos performing. State Representative Judith Garcia, Deputy Consul for the Consulate General of Brazil in Boston Júlio Cesar de Jesus, Ward 2 Councillor Stephanie Martins, Ward 6 Councillor Al Lattanzi and the City of Everett’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Cathy Draine. Pastor Bruno Silva delivering the closing prayer. Natalia Hubner sang the American and Brazilian National Anthems. Samantha Montoani and Paula Dias danced to the sounds of Grooversity led by Marcus Santos. Attendees enjoying the performances. The School Street municipal parking lot was packed with performers, vendors and attendees for the Brazilian Independence Festival. The procession began at Everett City Hall. Milena Cecilia performing. Attendees dancing to the music.
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