Quisqueyanos have another reason to bust out their Dominican flags – although, let’s be honest, they never really do go away. Today, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that January 21 to February 27 is Dominican Heritage Month.
Though it mostly coincides with DR’s Mes de la Patria, NY’s Dominican Heritage Month starts a few days earlier, with Día de la Altagracia kicking things off. Both here and on the island, the month celebrates founding father Juan Pablo Duarte’s birthday and Dominican Independence Day.
“During the observance of Dominican Heritage Month, our state’s Dominican communities host activities that promote awareness of their culture and heritage through religious and patriotic celebrations…,” the proclamation reads. “It is fitting that New Yorkers celebrate this special commemoration of ancestral pride and tradition with our Dominican communities, and extend appreciation to all our Dominican friends and neighbors for the valuable contributions they have made and continue to make to our great state.”
Dominicans in NY have already informally celebrated their country’s heritage, but now it’s official. And it’s about time. On top of being one of the largest Latino groups in New York, and having shaped Washington Heights and other pockets of NYC, the first New Yorker was also Dominican Juan Rodriguez.
Check out Cuomo’s official announcement below: