Butterfly Parade against violence toward women set for June 6 in Salcedo

Salcedo.- The Office for the Development of Women of Hermanas Mirabal province announced the upcoming Butterfly Parade for Non-Violence Against Women, a large-scale equestrian event scheduled for June 6 with support from the Ministries of Sports, Tourism and Agriculture.

The event was officially presented during a press conference at the Ministry of Sports, attended by Vice Minister Franklin de la Mota, Senator Mercedes Ortiz and members of the organizing committee.

Organizers said the annual horseback parade has become one of the country’s largest equestrian gatherings, attracting riders from provinces across the Dominican Republic since its launch in 2012. The initiative aims to promote domestic tourism, social integration and awareness about violence against women.

This year’s edition will honor the Chinese community in recognition of the Lunar Year of the Fire Horse, as well as horse riders from Sánchez Ramírez province. Several women connected to the equestrian sector will also be recognized during the event.

More than 1,500 riders are expected to participate, representing provinces including La Vega, Santiago, Hato Mayor, El Seibo, La Altagracia, Monte Plata and San Pedro de Macorís.

The route will cover approximately 16 to 17 kilometers through Salcedo and surrounding natural areas, including historical and cultural landmarks such as the Mirabal Sisters Museum, the Dr. Tejada Florentino house museum, Peace Ecopark and the Guanuma River Linear Park.

Officials emphasized that the event goes beyond horseback riding, serving as a national call to reject violence against women and honor the legacy of the Mirabal sisters — Patria, Minerva and María Teresa.

The Butterfly Parade will begin on Saturday, June 6, at 8:00 a.m. from the Salcedo Scientific High School, with organizers inviting families nationwide to support the message of culture, sports, community unity and non-violence against women.