U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat issued the following statement today to commemorate the 173rd anniversary of the Independence of the Dominican Republic:
“Founded in 1844, today marks the 173rd anniversary of the Independence of the Dominican Republic, celebrated annually as Dominican Republic Independence Day,” said Rep. Espaillat.
“In honor of founding fathers Juan Pablo Duarte, Ramón Matías Mella, Francisco del Rosario Sánchez and other patriots, Dominican communities established in New York and states around the country are hard-working communities, proud of our roots and our heritage, and supportive of our families, especially as it pertains to the next generation of leaders and ensuring our youth have the opportunity to achieve in the future.
“Not counting Dominicans born in the United States, 50% of Dominicans who come to this country are U.S. citizens. The growing Dominican community has established a voice in our country’s democratic process, as well as a growing number of Dominican-Americans who now hold elected offices in states ranging from New York, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
“As we celebrate Dominican Republic Independence Day, it is with great appreciation in large part to the Dominican community and the diversity of New York’s 13th Congressional District, that I now have the honor of being the first Dominican-American to serve in the United States Congress. For this, I am extremely grateful and humble for those who made it possible for this Dominican dreamer who came to America with his family at the age of 9 to reach his aspirations and achieve a shot at the American Dream in a country as great as ours.”
Become a Harlem Insider!
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
