Lowell officials hold flag-raising, proclaim June 24 as Franco American Heritage Day

Lowell City officials, clergy and members of the Franco American community gathered June 24, 2025, for a flag-raising ceremony and a proclamation recognizing the day as Franco American Heritage Day.

The ceremony, held outdoors because of the holiday events, featured remarks from Mayor O'Rourke, Vice Mayor Paul Rathele, Councilor Rita Mercia and Councilor John DeCoteau, a blessing by Father Clancy and brief remarks from representatives of the Quebec government in Boston. Mayor O'Rourke said, "These are our favorite days of the year," and thanked the community for its contributions to the city.

The proclamation presented at the ceremony, read on behalf of the mayor, cites the role of Franco American immigration and contribution to Lowell's economic and civic life and concludes by proclaiming "06/24/2025 as Franco American Heritage Day in the city of Lowell." The text honors ``the Franco American monument'' as "a lasting tribute" and urges residents to recognize the community's contributions.

Speakers recalled family histories tied to Lowell's mills and neighborhoods. Councilor Rita Mercia described growing up near the Northern Canal area "better known as Little Canada" and spoke about cultural and family traditions. Councilor John DeCoteau, noting the historical continuity of Franco American representation in city government, said the proclamation was a "privilege and an honor."

Renée Sylvester, representing the Quebec government office in Boston, said the Quebec government was "really part of your history" and expressed appreciation for sharing the moment with Lowell.

Organizers also used the gathering to announce a logistical change: an evening vespers service and reception originally scheduled the same day at the grotto on Pawtucket Street was moved to 6:30 p.m. Friday because of forecasted extreme heat. As event organizers explained, the grotto would be exposed to the sun and temperatures near 100 degrees, so the service and a wine-and-cheese reception at the Franco community room were rescheduled.

The program noted Norman Ayard as this year's honoree; speakers praised his long service, including his work with the housing authority. Organizers said they plan a longer-term fix for a worn plaque at the Franco American monument and discussed replacing it with a bronze plaque to reduce ongoing maintenance.

The ceremony included an invocation by Father Clancy and a rendition of the national anthem; veterans and community volunteers were acknowledged. Organizers encouraged attendees to take informational booklets about the week of festivities.

The gathering was primarily ceremonial and informational; no formal votes or council actions were recorded during the ceremony itself.