Mayor Adams honors Surinamese community at historic flag-raising ceremony

Mayor Eric Adams joined community leaders and residents at Bowling Green to honor the Surinamese American community in a historic flag-raising ceremony. The event celebrated Suriname’s rich cultural heritage and its contributions to the vibrancy of New York City.

State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar shared her personal connection to the immigrant experience: “My parents came to this country with just $300 and one suitcase and hope. Today, I stand here in the greatest city in the world, in honor of the Surinamese American community of New York City.”

Rajkumar highlighted the growing presence of Surinamese Americans, who have been part of New York’s cultural mosaic since the 1970s, particularly in neighborhoods like Queens Village, Jamaica, and Richmond Hill. Today, nearly 15,000 Surinamese Americans call the United States home.

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Mayor Adams praised the community for preserving their cultural roots while enriching New York City: “What’s beautiful about this country is that it states, don’t abandon your culture, your motherland, by being part of America. You are Suriname Americans, but don’t forget the Suriname part of it. Bring that culture here and live and be proud of who you are.”

Adams also emphasized the symbolic importance of the ceremony, tying it to the broader ethos of the city: “When we raise the flag, we raise your spirits, we raise your contribution, and we make sure your culture is passed down to your young people.”

The ceremony included recognition of community leaders such as Dr. Judith Naraine, described as the “heart and soul” of the event. Surinamese culture was further celebrated with references to its cuisine, music, and the iconic green, white, and red flag, symbolizing the Amazon’s fertility, peace and justice, and the sacrifices for independence.

As New Yorkers prepare for Thanksgiving, Mayor Adams left the crowd with a poignant reminder: “The season is called Thanksgiving, not thanks receiving. Go out and give, volunteer, do something for someone. People are hurting in this city, and we have an obligation to give in some way.”

The event underscored the unity and resilience of New York City’s diverse communities, with the Surinamese flag now standing tall as a testament to their enduring legacy.