Wilkes-Barre Celebrates Diversity at Annual Multicultural Parade & Festival
WILKES-BARRE – The vibrancy of the Diamond City was on full display Saturday at the ninth annual Wilkes-Barre Multicultural Parade & Festival, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of the community.
Co-Chair Erica Acosta, a dedicated organizer since the event’s inception, expressed her enthusiasm for celebrating the diverse heritage of Wilkes-Barre and Luzerne County. “We are just excited to bring all the different cultures together in one celebration,” she said, emphasizing the unity and colorful representation of various identities.
At noon, scores of residents gathered at South and South Main Street, proudly displaying numerous flags and cultural symbols as they marched through Public Square, later converging for the festival.
Melba Delvillar, leading a parade group from St. Nicholas-St. Mary’s Catholic Church, represented the Dominican community with over 40 participants. “We have to do it, because it’s our culture,” she remarked, valuing the opportunity to share their traditions beyond family circles.
Elia Paris, also from the Dominican group, highlighted the event as a means to foster cultural integration. “We want the community to get integrated,” she said, inviting attendees to experience their dances and ways of interaction.
Mareli Bernard, a Wilkes University sophomore representing Puerto Rico, shared her excitement about celebrating the community’s diversity. “I’m just excited to be here to support my school and to see all the heritage come together,” she stated.
The Wilkes-Barre Area School District, increasingly diverse, also participated, showcasing students from at least seven different countries. Melissa Myers, Director of English Language Development, noted the district’s commitment to celebrating their students’ varied languages and cultures.
The festival featured cultural performances from various groups, including an Aztec dance troupe from St. Nicholas-St. Mary’s, the Folklore Andinos del Ecuador, and artist-Poet Rose Daniels. Maria Campoverde represented Ecuadorian culture, emphasizing a focus on the Amazon region.
Jesus Sanchez, a member of the Aztec group, expressed pride in sharing Mexican traditions with the next generation. “We represent for the cultures of Mexico,” he said, highlighting the importance of passing down customs.
Attendee Shanice Smith appreciated the event as an opportunity to interact with diverse cultures and noted the impressive Aztec dance performance.
Noor Almeky, celebrating her Egyptian heritage, remarked on the significance of unity amid division in today’s world. “With everything going on, it’s a great time to bring everybody together,” she reflected. “At the end of the day, we’re all still one world.”
The festivity not only celebrated cultural diversity but also fostered community spirit, creating lasting connections among attendees.
