Matters ▸ Attachment
PE Haitian Flag 5-18 — File 26-0789
PUBLIC EVENT/SPECIAL ALCOHOL LICENSE APPLICATION
City of Somerville, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Application #: PEL26-000050
File #: 26-012634
Haitian Flag Raising
Event Name:
SOIA - Office of Immigrant Affairs
Business Name:
Public Event License
Application Type:
42 CROSS ST
Location:
APPLICANT
SOIA - Office of Immigrant Affairs
Company Name:
Karim L. Razzaz
Contact Name:
Business Address:
,
Home Address:
42 Cross St
Somerville, MA 02145
Work Phone:
Home Phone:
krazzaz@somervillema.gov
Email:
# of days: 1
Does this event occupy a public space or significantly affect nearby residents?: Yes
Are you the party applying for the Public Event License?: Yes
Describe the location in detail: City Hall Concourse
In the last 5 years, have you been found guilty, liable, or responsible, in any judicial or administrative proceeding,
for any violation of the City Wage Theft Ordinance or any State or Federal laws or regulations regulating the
payment of wages? City Wage Theft Ordinance: No
Date: 05/18/2026
Event Setup Begins: 02:30 PM
Start Time: 03:00 PM
End Time: 05:00 PM
Event Cleanup Ends: 05:30 PM
Do You Have a Proposed Rain Date for Your Public Event?: No
Organization name; if none, your name: Haitian Service providers Coalition (HSPC) & Somerville office of Immigrant
Describe any social or cultural benefits of this event for Somerville residents : •n Builds a sense of belonging and pride
for the community being honored. • Helps residents learn about and appreciate different cultures. • Strengthens connections
among neighbors through shared celebration. • Shows Somerville’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for all
backgrounds.
Describe any financial benefits of this event for Somerville businesses or organizations: N/A
What is the budget for this event?: N/A
Complete Mailing Address : 93 Highland Ave Somerville MA 02143
Contact name for follow-up questions (Will be available to the public): Karim L. Razzaz
Email: krazzaz@somervillema.gov
Phone (Will be available to the public): [phone removed]
Event Name : Haitian Flag Raising
Describe the Event: The flagraising ceremony honors the vibrant Haitian community of Somerville and celebrates the rich
history, resilience, and cultural pride represented by the Haitian flag. The event features brief remarks from community
leaders and local officials, followed by the raising of the Haitian flag at City Hall. Residents are invited to gather in solidarity,
learn about Haiti’s heritage, and recognize the contributions Haitian families make to the social and cultural life of our city.
This celebration creates a welcoming space for connection, cultural expression, and community pride for Haitians and all
Somerville residents.
Describe any Entertainment at the Event (if none, type None): N/A
Describe any tents, inflatables, or other temporary structures to be used (if none, type None): N/A
Describe any accessibility features available to attendees/participants: N/A
Estimated maximum attendance at one time : 20-30
Estimated total number of people attending: 50
Estimated total number of Somerville residents attending : 50
Maximum number of attendees you will accommodate: 50
Attendee fees or suggested donations : N/A
Will this event be open to the public?: Yes
Describe your outreach/publicity: The event was promoted through City of Somerville communication channels, social
media, and city calendars, as well as through Haitian community organizations, local partners, and neighborhood networks to
ensure broad and direct outreach to Haitian residents.
Will food be served?: No
Will a grill/open-flame device be used? : No
Will any streets be blocked? : No
Will any sidewalks be blocked? : Yes
If yes, describe:: City Hall Concourse Sidewalk
Will any public parks be used? : No
Has this event occurred in the last two years? : Yes
If yes, prior dates : May 2025 / May 2024
Police Detail : No
Parking for Attendees : No
Restrooms : No
Liability Insurance : No
Approval Conditions:
CS Mayor, Mayor's Office, Approved
Reviewer:
Kevin Roche, Engineering, Approved
Reviewer:
Eric Weisman, Public Works, Approved
Reviewer:
Charles Breen, Fire Prevention, Approved
Reviewer:
Suzanne Rinfret, Traffic and Parking, Approved
Reviewer:
Mackenzie Richardson, Police, Approved
Reviewer:
Kimberly M. Wells, City Clerk, Approved
Reviewer:
Jesse Moos, Engineering, Complete
Reviewer: