Release #300-00

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today welcomed members of the New York Dominican community to Gracie Mansion for a ceremony honoring the 19th Annual Dominican Parade, and also the/ achievements and heritage of the Dominican community in New York City. The Mayor presented a proclamation to Parade President Nelson Pena declaring August 13th "Dominican Parade Day" in New York City. Also in attendance were Ninfa Segarra, a member of the New York City Board of Education, and Deputy Mayor Rudy Washington.

"Today New York City's Dominican population is the largest Dominican community outside the Dominican Republic," Mayor Giuliani said. "Our City's Dominican population is among the strongest and proudest in the nation and constitutes one of New York City's most vibrant immigrant communities.

"I am pleased to join the Dominican Day Parade Committee and all Dominicans in New York City in celebrating a proud nation's historic past. The parade serves as recognition of Dominican contributions to our City's civic, cultural and entrepreneurial life, and this community's proud and prosperous future," the Mayor added.

The 19th Annual Dominican Day Parade will be held on Sunday, August 13th, along Sixth Avenue between 36th and 58th Street in Manhattan. The parade is the highlight of a series of cultural events celebrated throughout the City to honor Dominican heritage.

This year, the Dominican community commemorates the 137th anniversary of the restoration of its Constitution on August 16, 1863, when a group of patriots led by Santiago Rodriguez crossed the Dominican border from Haiti and raised the Dominican flag.

www.nyc.gov