The Hartford Puerto Rican Parade and Festival scheduled to take place Sunday is being postponed after a police officer was killed in a car crash Wednesday night.
Organizers said they are postponing the event to allow the community time to heal and reflect on this tragedy.
"We feel this moment is important to show our support to the Hartford Police Department and the community," said Connecticut Institute for Community Development President Sammy Vega.
Puerto Rican Parade, Inc. said their decision was not taken lightly, but they believe it's their responsibility to postpone the event.
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"We believe it is imperative to allow time for healing and reflection," Vega said during a news conference.
Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin said the parade is an important day in the city, and many officers are called in to support the festival every year.
"Having been to role call this afternoon, the police department is grateful for the decision you made today," Bronin said.
The mayor said the postponement will give some officers the break they need and the rest they might not otherwise get. Puerto Rican Parade officials are encouraging people to support each other and stay connected through this difficult time.
A new date for the festival is yet to be determined.
Puerto Rican Parade, Inc. issued the following statement:
"In light of the tragic loss suffered by our community, CICD Puerto Rican Parade regrets to announce the postponement of all festivities originally scheduled for this coming Sunday, September 10th, 2023. This includes all three events previously announced, Faith Outreach Concert, PR Parade, and the Festival del Coquí.
As you may already know, a dedicated member of the Hartford Police Department, made the ultimate sacrifice while in the line of duty last night. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Bobby Garten during this difficult time.
In honor of Officer Garten and to respect the mourning period of our community, we have decided to postpone the Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival to a later date still to be determine. This decision was not made lightly, as we understand the importance of coming together to celebrate our culture. However, we believe it is the right course of action to pay our respects and support our community in this time of grief.
We are currently working closely with the City of Hartford and the Police Department to determine the most suitable rescheduled date for the event. We will communicate the new date and any updated details as soon as they become available. We remain committed to making the PR Parade and Festival a memorable and meaningful occasion that reflects the values of our community and pays tribute to our fallen hero.
We would like to express our gratitude for the understanding and support of our community during this challenging time. Together, we will remember and honor the life and service of Officer Garten while continuing to build a safer and more united community.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of Officer Garten and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Please stay tuned for further updates regarding the rescheduled of the PR Parade and Festival."
