The national flag of Azerbaijan was raised in Chicago, United States, to mark October 18 — Azerbaijan's Independence Restoration Day, bringing together members of the Azerbaijani diaspora in a celebration of national identity and solidarity.
The traditional flag-raising ceremony was organized by Farid Mammadov and Mehriban Mammadova, co-founders of the Azerbaijani Center for the Midwest States (ACMA).
Members of the Azerbaijani community from Chicago and neighboring states attended the event, demonstrating their connection to their homeland and their commitment to preserving national traditions while living abroad.
Representatives of the Azerbaijani Center emphasized that such initiatives play an important role in strengthening friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and the United States.
They also highlighted the significance of bringing together Azerbaijani communities living abroad and promoting unity and solidarity among diaspora members.
According to the organizers, cultural and commemorative events help preserve Azerbaijani national identity, raise international awareness of the country's history and heritage, and pass national and cultural values on to younger generations.
The ceremony also provided an opportunity for Azerbaijanis living in the United States to celebrate an important milestone in their country's modern history.
Azerbaijan restored its state independence on October 18, 1991, when the Supreme Council adopted the Constitutional Act on State Independence, marking the country's return to sovereignty after decades of Soviet rule.
The 2026 celebration marks the 35th anniversary of that historic event.
The flag-raising ceremony in Chicago highlighted the continued efforts of the Azerbaijani diaspora to maintain cultural connections, promote national traditions and strengthen ties between Azerbaijan and the United States.
The gathering served as another demonstration of the Azerbaijani community's commitment to national heritage, statehood traditions and solidarity across generations.