2017 Statement on Hartford Parade

Statement on the Status of the 2017 Annual Greater Hartford Puerto Rican Parade Day Parade & Festival del Coquí

The Connecticut Institute for Community Development – Puerto Rican Parade (CICD) is the planning stages for the future of the organization.

The committee is aware that the parade has shifted from its original purpose of raising awareness about issues affecting Puerto Ricans in Hartford. When the parade began in the late 1960’s, community activists were able to use the parade as a platform to inform and educate the community. Those leaders also advocated strongly for services that migrating Puerto Ricans needed as they settled with their families in Hartford. Some of

those services included access to bilingual education, housing, legal representation and social services.

Today, we can see the impact their efforts had as many of the children who grew up in that era became today’s professionals taking on leadership roles in many settings. These individuals are government officials, educators, doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, media professionals, and community advocates among others.

After looking at the parade’s purpose, its impact to the City neighborhoods and to the community, and the costs associated with running the parade and festival, the committee has decided to forego these events this year, in order to strategize and plan for future activities.

The organization’s current focus is on its mission of preserving the Puerto Rican culture by “promoting leadership and education, celebrating traditions and being involved in community service for the Puerto Rican and Hispanic Community.”

The shift in the makeup and the needs of the Puerto Rican and Hispanic community in Hartford and in the region influence how and why the organization operates going forward. This means that while the committee raises the necessary funds for the 2018 events, other activities will take place to ensure the organization is being relevant to the community and its needs.

CICD’s future will be based on its financial sustainability, on forging future collaborations with key partners; and on remaining relevant to the needs of the Puerto Rican and Hispanic community.

Board of Directors
Connecticut Institute for Community Development
Puerto Rican Parade