19/06/2026 21:32 - Actualidad
Una bandera argentina grande ondeando al sol con el cielo celeste y blanco de fondo, en una plaza pública repleta de estudiantes con banderas pequeñas y familias.
In an emotional day filled with patriotic symbolism, thousands of students across Argentina gathered to renew their commitment to the national flag. This annual tradition takes place in the days leading up to June 20th, a national holiday commemorating the death of General Manuel Belgrano, the creator of the Argentine flag. For a foreign visitor, this is one of the most profound displays of Argentine culture, where children and teenagers publicly vow to respect and defend their country's symbols.
For locals, this is a cherished childhood memory. In Argentina, 4th-grade students (typically 9 or 10 years old) make the "Promise of Allegiance" (Promesa de Lealtad), while 4th-year high school students (around 15 years old) take the "Oath of Fidelity" (Juramento de Fidelidad). It is a formal ceremony where students pledge loyalty to the flag and the homeland.
The departmental plaza in Santa Lucía hosted an inclusive and intergenerational ceremony. Led by Mayor Juan José Orrego, the event brought together primary school students, high schoolers, and senior citizens, bridging generations through patriotism. "This is an experience that will remain in the participants' memory," the mayor stated.
In Plaza Independencia (Independence Square), over 750 students from 12 schools gathered in what officials called the largest ceremony in years. Mayor Ulpiano Suarez recalled his own school days 47 years ago, telling students that "Loving Argentina is not just getting emotional... it is also assuming responsibilities... working to build a better society."
A massive event took place at the local Racetrack (Hipódromo), where more than 3,400 4th graders from 86 public and private schools made their promise. Mayor Ramón Lanús emphasized that Belgrano was a common person who chose to put his country first, a choice available to everyone. The ceremony included a performance by a member of the famous folk group Los Chalchaleros.
In Plaza Belgrano, 1,052 students were accompanied by the Bonaerense Youth Symphony Orchestra. Mayor Julio Alak highlighted the legacy of Belgrano and San Martín as symbols of sovereignty and freedom, thanking them for giving their lives for the nation's independence.
The Argentine National Flag was created by Manuel Belgrano during the war for independence from Spain. He first raised it on February 27, 1812, near the Paraná River in Rosario. The colors, light blue and white (celeste y blanco), were chosen from the cockade used by the independence fighters.
June 20th is a fixed national holiday (feriado inamovible) marking Belgrano's death in 1820. Unlike other holidays that might move to a Monday, this date is always observed on the exact day, ensuring the tribute remains historically accurate.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
