UTICA, NY – Dominicans around the world are celebrating 174 years of independence.
And that includes Dominicans right here in Utica.
Local Latinos gathered at the Mohawk Valley Latino Association on Sunday for the 5th Annual Dominican Independence Heritage Celebration.
The day included a reading of the history of the Dominican Republic, the singing of the American and Dominican national anthems, as well as plenty of traditional Dominican food and music.
Comite Dominicano de Utica’s Raquel Tavarez says it’s very important for their young people to know their history.
“It’s very important. We need to keep our roots, and we need to show them where they came from so they will know who they are. They will be proud, the same way we are.”
On Tuesday the celebration continues with a flag ceremony at Utica city hall at noon.
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