Early Dominican Day Parades in NYC
Rare glimpses into the first Dominican Day parades in Washington Heights during the early 1980s, filled with culture and community.
Miguel Amaro, Architect of the Dominican Day Parade (1982/1984) by Normandía MaldonadoCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Founder Miguel Amaro at the Dominican Day Parade
Community activist Miguel Amaro's vision shaped the Dominican Day Parade into the vibrant cultural event it is today. His legacy lives on not only in the parade but also at Audubon Avenue and West 190th Street, co-named in his honor as Miguel Amaro Way.
Centro Cívico Cultural Dominicano at the Dominican Day Parade (1983/1984) by Normandía MaldonadoCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Centro Cívico Cultural Dominicano marches
Centro Cívico Cultural Dominicano, one of the oldest Dominican civic groups in New York City participated in the early Dominican Day Parades. Dominican Day Parade co-founder Julio César Rodríguez is seen on the right here, marking a pivotal moment of the parade's history.
School District 6 celebrates
Representing Manhattan's School District 6, young women participate in the Dominican Day Parade. Their colorful folkloric dresses and banners highlight the community's commitment to cultural celebration and education.
Centro Cultural Ballet Quisqueya Float at the Parade (1983/1984) by Zunilda FondeurCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Celebrating Dominican Heritage through music
At an early Dominican Day Parade, young dancers from Centro Cultural Ballet Quisqueya accompanied by a merengue band, bring Dominican rhythms to life. This vibrant performance captures a moment of musical and cultural pride.
Traditional Dominican Dancers at the Dominican Day Parade (1982-08-15) by Normandía MaldonadoCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Youth and tradition at Dominican Day Parade
Onlookers watch young performers celebrate Dominican culture through folkloric dance at the parade. With each step, the skirts swing, embodying the movement and memory of Dominican identity.
Marching with Pride at the Dominican Day Parade (1982/1984) by Normandía MaldonadoCUNY Dominican Studies Institute
Dominican pride on display
A large crowd marches joyfully in the Dominican Day Parade in Washington Heights. This final photo reminds us of a tradition that continues to thrive every August, standing as a vital celebration of Dominican identity and an enduring fixture of New York City’s cultural life.
CUNY Dominican Studies Institute Archives
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