The Bosnian Youth of Syracuse (BYS) organized a Bosnian-Herzegovinian Community Flag Raising Ceremony in collaboration with the City of Syracuse. The event was created with the goal of “raising awareness of our community and its achievements” says Esmir Omerović, representative of BYS and it’s parent organization Islamic Cultural Center of Bosniaks in Syracuse (ICCBS).
This event comes days before the impactful Srebrenica Commemoration Day (July 11th) where we remember all those who lost their lives in the Srebrenica and Bosnian Genocide. However, the message of this event brought a different message.
Omerović quoted that one of their key themes this year was to “create stronger bonds within our communities.”
City of Syracuse Chief of Staff Bill Ryan attended the event. Leaders of the BYS, such as Emina Ramić and Anel Hirkić, addressed the audience with heartfelt closing remarks. New York State Senator David Valesky sent representatives to attend the event as well.
Over 50 people attended this momentous occasion of raising the Bosnian flag and we at the Bosnian American Institute could not be more proud of the efforts of the youth and community in Syracuse. Actions like theirs take a step forward in creating a more unified nation. With everyone’s help, we can continue to preserve the Bosnian-Herzegovinian heritage.
Today, July 9th, BYS also hosted a 5K walk in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the genocide. Be sure to give a like and follow to the BYS page to follow up on their efforts in Syracuse and to see any updates on the 5K walk.