INDEX culminates the first Dominican Heritage Week in the U.S.

New York.– With a total of 12 activities carried out in three states and four cities, the Institute of Dominicans and Dominicans Abroad (INDEX) impacted more than 10,000 people during the first Dominican Heritage Week in the United States, within the framework of the 162nd anniversary of the Restoration of the Republic, under the slogan “Unity, Culture and Vision of the Future”. The event was led by the ambassador and vice-minister of Foreign Affairs, Celinés Toribio, executive director of INDEX, who highlighted the importance of the commemoration as a symbol of pride, unity, and cultural reaffirmation for the Dominican diaspora. The celebrations included parades, concerts, conferences, art exhibitions, and patriotic acts, which exalted the music, gastronomy, and traditions of the Dominican Republic. In each activity, the enthusiasm of families, young people, and community organizations that participated massively in cities like Boston, Lawrence, Rhode Island, and Connecticut was reflected.

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During his intervention, Toribio emphasized that Dominican Heritage Month and the restoration feat represent a legacy of courage and unity: "Dominican Heritage Month and the anniversary of the Restoration remind us that we are a strong people, with firm roots and a culture that transcends any border. From INDEX, our mission is to continue strengthening the bond between the diaspora and the Dominican Republic, promoting activities that integrate families, young people, and our community leaders," he expressed. Toribio also highlighted that, under the vision of President Luis Abinader and in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diaspora not only celebrates its heritage, but also contributes to the economic, cultural and social growth of the country.

Heritage and Identity

The 162nd anniversary of the Restoration, which commemorates the bravery of heroes like Gregorio Luperón, Gaspar Polanco, and Santiago Rodríguez, coincided this year with a renewed impetus in the diaspora. The commemorations strengthened the Country Brand and reaffirmed the bonds of cultural identity between Dominicans abroad and the homeland. The INDEX highlighted that these activities not only evoke the glorious past of independence, but also project a future grounded in the unity, culture, and vision of development of the Dominican community abroad.