Sunday, September 24, 2023
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 P.M.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite you to join us on a walking tour celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant culture of Hispanic communities in East Harlem.
New York City is home to a diverse tapestry of cultures, with Latinos constituting the second-largest ethnic group. Recognizing and honoring the history and traditions of this significant community is of utmost importance, and East Harlem stands out as a place where Latin culture has thrived for generations.
East Harlem’s ties to Latin culture date back to the 1940s and 1950s when a substantial number of Puerto Ricans settled in the area. Today, East Harlem remains a vibrant hub for Latinos, including Mexicans and Dominicans, who have helped keep the flame of their heritage alive. The neighborhood is renowned for its artistic expressions, from striking murals to captivating graffiti, as well as cultural institutions like El Museo del Barrio. Despite its challenges, East Harlem remains a cherished enclave of Latin culture.
This tour will highlight some of the most significant historic places for the Hispanic community include the Julia de Burgos Latino Cultural Center, named in honor of the renowned Puerto Rican poet Julia de Burgos, who spent her final days in East Harlem. Additionally, we’ll visit the iconic Young Lords Party Billboard, featuring a photograph captured by Hiram Maristany, the official photographer of the Young Lords Party; the 103rd Street Subway Station Mosaics by Nitza Tufiñ, who is a Puerto Rican-Mexican artist, trained first in Puerto Rico in the graphic arts and later in Mexico as a muralist; and the “Aquí me Quedo” mural by Charlie Doves (2021) which translates “Here I Stay” and represents the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade that could not be held that year because of COVID-19.
Join us as we explore the cultural heart of East Harlem and pay tribute to the enduring heritage of Hispanic communities in this remarkable neighborhood.
