Lawrence, Massachusetts

2 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 9 Lawrence, MA AT A GLANCE LAWRENCE, MA WHAT: Small historical town with Latin roots WHERE: Essex County, MA WEBSITE: https://www.cityoflawrence.com/ S ituated on the banks of the Merrimack River, the City of Lawrence, Massachusetts, prides itself on being a place that welcomes all walks of life. It’s a melting pot of vibrant cultures with links all over the globe. According to the last census, the city’s population is around 89,000. But the city estimated that the actual population was actually around 110,000 as it has a history of taking in the disenfranchised and giving them a new lease on life. Established in 1833, the government structure is a city council mayor with a government. With its history deeply linked to centuries of welcoming immigrants, most of the current population hails from Puerto Rico and Central America. Mayor Brian A. DePena, who has deep Latino roots, is proud of the city’s past, “History is important to our city. We have festivals to celebrate all these amazing cultures.” As a city that’s truly inclusive, it plays host to many exciting festivals. These festivals take place in the numerous parks around the city, which have been named after the multitude of cultures that have made their Putting the residents first for a great place to call home