Kearny, NJ – On Saturday, July 10, 2021, Mayor Alberto G. Santos and Councilwoman Marytrine De Castro joined the Peruvian Civic Association of New Jersey (PCANJ) for the Kearny Peruvian Independence Day celebration at Peruvian Heritage Park and Monument at Riverbank Park in Kearny. The ceremony marked the 200th Anniversary of Peru’s independence and included remarks by Mayor Santos and PCANJ President Aurora Albinagorta.
During his remarks, Mayor Santos emphasized that the ceremony was a celebration of both Peruvian heritage and American integration, of an immigrant community that has become part of the American fabric through shared values. Mayor Santos recognized the contributions of Kearny’s Peruvian community and the importance for everyone who comes here to embrace the values that make our country the land of opportunity, allowing us to work, to be free, to succeed and to give back to our community, which has a long history of welcoming immigrants from many countries.
In addition to a procession, attendees enjoyed performances by Peruvian folkloric dancers that exhibited their culture through the use of native costumes and music as the PCANJ shared a part of their heritage. Mayor Santos and the Town Council extend sincere thanks to the Peruvian Civic Association and all participants and spectators for making the celebration a great success.
(Photos by Barbara Goldberg)