Washington Heights, NY
If there is one place where the “Platano Power” runs strong, it’s Washington Heights.
What once was an average area of upper Manhattan slowly became a hub of culture from the powerful presence of its Dominican inhabitants. How did this happen, you may ask? Well, it was simple. In the 1960s, after seeking political and economic stability after the death of dictator Rafael Trujillo, Dominicans began leaving the country in large numbers. They stumbled upon Washington Heights for the opportunity it brought through its inexpensive apartments and easy access to subway lines that enabled them to find jobs fast in the Garment District.
But with an existing Latino presence in this neighborhood, how did Dominicans take it over and make it known as “Little Dominican Republic”? Like other Latino immigrants that came before them (Cubans/Mexicans/Puerto Ricans), Dominicans came to the neighborhood determined to leave their mark. As a Dominican myself, the determination of my people is a force to be reckoned with. You could easily see the impact that we started to have in the area. The guiding source: embedding the culture in all aspects of the neighborhood. Through the energy and willingness to “make it” that comes with being Dominican, they started to lend a type of permanence to the area.
They were quick to set up businesses directly linked to their hometowns, restaurants that showcased the versatility in food, sporting clubs (baseball being at the forefront), and even political organizations. These things began to turn the neighborhood around, making it a major force in the city of Manhattan. Even to the point that Washington Heights is now represented in Washington by the first ever Dominican-American in Congress, Adriano Espaillat. This mark led other Dominicans to find the feeling of “home” in Washington Heights. It became the place to achieve your “American Dream” while still feeling like you’re back on the island.
You can now find close to one million Dominicans in NYC. The majority of them live in the heights. The networks of friends and family that are embedded in the neighborhood have kept the imprint of Dominicans so prominent that even gentrification can’t take away the spirit of the people. That power is unique, and it all comes from the passion and tradition that Dominicans hold to this day. Through it, you can still feel that sense of community that can be rare in Manhattan.
From the bodegas on every corner, salons that slay your hair, to the restaurants that make your mouth water with servings of sancocho, mofongo, and la bandera, which consists of carne guisada, arroz, y habichuelas (stewed meat, rice & beans). Iconic places like El Malecon and El Bizcocho Dominicano or Angela’s Cake have been open for over 20 years and remain a staple within the flourishing culture that lives in the neighborhood.
Washington Heights is also home to many household names, one of them being Lin Manuela Miranda. The Puerto Rican-American Actor, Playwright, Composer, and Filmmaker is known for the Broadway Musical “In the Heights”, which is based on the neighborhood. You likely also know the beloved Cardi B, born in the neighborhood, whose Dominican roots have a prominent presence in her music career. These celebrities have helped bring their Latino culture to the mainstream media and make an impact on Hollywood that is growing stronger every day.
It’s safe to say that Dominicans have el sazón that keeps giving. We will always welcome you with a smile and show you how to gozar (have a good time). Washington Heights is a testament to the love Dominicans have for their powerful culture.
So don’t hesitate to check out the area next time you’re in NYC; stop by a bodega, enjoy a morisoñando, and party with some of the best types of people you’ll ever meet