The dominican diaspora in New York comes together this Friday, February 6, at the exhibition “Somos Carnaval”, a vibrant tribute to the carnival traditions that transcend borders. Organized by the Dominican Culture Directorate Abroad, together with the Consulate General and the Ministry of Culture, this show opens its doors in Upper Manhattan to revive the colorful and joyful spirit of the Quisqueya carnival.
Event Details and Cultural Significance
Somos Carnaval takes place during the Month of the Homeland, February, when national pride intensifies. Rey Andújar, director of the institution, emphasizes that the carnival represents the “collective spirit” of Dominicans, a dance of memory and history that travels with people. Under the motto “When identity travels, the carnival never stays behind”, visitors will explore masks, whistles, maracas, and photographs that evoke carnivals from La Vega, Santiago, and other emblematic regions.
Production and Curaduría: An Effort Together
Ricardo Ureña and Héctor Ureña at the Front
Ricardo Ureña handles general production, while Professor Héctor Ureña curated the exhibition, combining artistic rigor with popular sensitivity. Each piece illustrates how the dominican diaspora keeps this heritage alive, adapting it to the New York context. Andújar invites: “Somos Carnaval because we bring the party in our soul, dancing to the rhythm of our history even in distance”.
The Dominican carnival, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2022 for variants like La Vega’s, unites Taino, African, and Spanish roots. In the US, over 2 million Dominicans preserve these customs, according to 2020 Census data, strengthening identity in cities like New York, home to the largest community outside the island.
Location and Access for the Community
- Address: 2406 Amsterdam Avenue, corner 180th Street, 4th floor, Upper Manhattan.
- Date: Friday, February 6, public opening.
- Admission: Free, open to the entire community.
This initiative not only celebrates but also educates new generations about the role of carnival in Dominican social cohesion. Events like Somos Carnaval demonstrate how culture resists exile, fostering ties with the homeland. The dominican diaspora responds to the call, ready to immerse itself in the jubilation that defines its essence. In Somos Carnaval, New York beats to the pulse of eternal carnival.
