Kearny, NJ – On September 7, 2022, Mayor Alberto G. Santos, Council Members Carol Jean Doyle, Marytrine De Castro, Richard Konopka, Peter Santana, Eileen Eckel, Susan McCurrie and Gerald Ficeto, and Board of Education Member George Zapata, gathered at American Revolution Bicentennial Park (Town Hall Park) for the Brazilian flag raising in celebration of the bicentennial. The ceremony marked the 200^thAnniversary of Brazil’s declaration of independence from Portugal and included remarks by Mayor Santos, Councilman Peter Santana, and entrepreneurs, Juliano Souza of Mina’s Café and Edson Silva of Brasas Grill, Bar & Restaurant in Kearny.

During his remarks, Mayor Santos recognized the contributions of Kearny’s Brazilian community and the importance for everyone who comes here to embrace the values that make our country the land of opportunity, which has a long history of welcoming immigrants from many countries.

At the ceremony, attendees enjoyed performances by Brazilian dancers of Samba ballroom dance and Capoeira, a unique blend of martial arts, dance, and music. Mayor Santos and the Town Council extend sincere thanks to the Brazilian community for their contributions to the Town of Kearny and all participants and spectators for making the celebration a great success.

(Photos by Barbara Goldberg)

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