Ecuadorian Independence Day

On August 16, 2009, the City of Danbury, along with the Ecuadorian Civic Center of

Greater Danbury and area Ecuadorian residents, celebrated Ecuador's Independence Day. The holiday, which is celebrated on August 10, pays tribute to the South American nation's capital of Quito, which gained its independence from Spain in 1820.

The rest of Ecuador achieved independence on May 24, 1822, after Field Marshal Antonio José de Sucre defeated the Spanish Army at the Battle of Pichincha, near Quito.

Following the battle, Ecuador became part of Simón Bolívar's Republic of Gran Colombia - joining with modern day Colombia and Venezuela - becoming its own republic in 1830. Antonio José de Sucre is buried at the Cathedral of Quito.

The day started with a flag raising ceremony at Danbury City Hall, with speeches by Mayor Mark D. Boughton and the President of the Ecuadorian Civic Center of Greater Danbury, Enrique Bautista.

"I am grateful and honored that Danbury city officials are here participating with the Ecuadorian community of Danbury for our independence day, especially Mayor Boughton," said Bautista.

"I am also grateful to see so many of my countrymen here this morning. Today is a day of patriotism, for all Ecuadorians to be united and to share our heritage and culture with the community. This is a day to remember our homeland and for us to continue toward a hopeful and prosperous future."

Boughton spoke about the city's diversity and unity, "Today is a day to respect all ethnicities that live here in the city of Danbury. Yesterday we celebrated India's Independence Day and soon we'll celebrate the Brazilian Independence, but today we celebrate Ecuador's." I love that we do this every year because to me, it shows that we really are all one people."

A member in the crowd asked Mayor Boughton about Danbury's recent approval for a federal partnership under Section 287(g) of U.S. immigration law, and whether those present had reason to be afraid. Boughton replied, "Law abiding citizens do not have to worry."

Boughton spoke further about new Agreement, stating, "I strongly support and respect the important role that immigrants have played in Danbury's unique history. After all, we are a nation of immigrants and we are all descendants of immigrants. This new effort will allow Danbury to deal with the specific issue of illegal immigration, and its criminal element."

Following the raising of the U.S. and Ecuadorian flags, with both national anthems played by a local Ecuadorian Band, the audience enjoyed musical and dance performances. The festivities continued at the Ives Concert Center, with live music, traditional food, games and artisan crafts.