Members of the Binghamton community celebrated Dominican Independence Day at the American Civic Association on Saturday, with local sponsors and volunteers from Binghamton University’s Dominican Student Association.

Dominican Independence Day is celebrated on Feb. 27 in commemoration of the coup against Haitian occupation in 1844. “La Trinitaria,” a secret society that organized the insurrection, was spearheaded by founding fathers Juan Pablo Duarte, Ramón Matías Mella and Francisco del Rosario Sánchez. The road to independence was tumultuous for the Caribbean country. From being Spain’s first colony in the New World to being ruled by Haiti, it is this fight for freedom that continues to vitalize the Dominican population to this day.

“In the Dominican Republic, the entire month of February is filled with carnival celebrations in different cities throughout the country,” Edward Marte, the event’s organizer, wrote to Pipe Dream. “I remember growing up and attending these carnivals, which were full of music, culture, food, and community pride. Bringing those traditions here allows us to keep that connection alive and share it with others.”

Carnival is an incredibly popular celebration in the Dominican Republic, with each town having its own spin on the event. Performers often wear costumes and masks representing various traditional figures. These characters, including diablos, lechones, trapuses and many more, roam the streets in parades for weeks and do much more than just entertain.

Guests brought home-cooked traditional meals to share with the community. With volunteers from DSA, the event brought together Hispanic people of all ages and backgrounds.

“For young people, this type of celebration has a profound impact,” Saima Dominguez, a colleague of Marte and Pennsylvania-based advocate for Dominican Americans, wrote in an email. “It helps them strengthen their identity, feel represented and proud of their heritage, and develop a positive sense of belonging that influences their behavior and self-esteem. It also enriches the cultural life of Binghamton by creating spaces of exchange where other communities can learn about and appreciate Dominican joy, resilience, and artistic richness.”

Throughout the event, New York City-based dance troupe Ballet Folklorico de Juan Pablo Duarte showcased traditional Dominican dancing styles with multiple performances. The performances encouraged audience participation and attendees were quick to get out of their chairs.

“Holding events like this helps strengthen and unite the Hispanic community in Binghamton,” Marte wrote. “Even though we are far from our homeland, these gatherings allow us to come together, celebrate our heritage, share traditional Dominican food, and enjoy the music that represents our culture. It creates a sense of belonging and helps preserve our identity for future generations.”

Traveling from Pennsylvania, Dominguez represents the Dominican population outside of New York and the coming together that these celebrations encourage. No matter the distance, focus on togetherness stretches across borders and allows for the beauty of these traditions to be shared. Dominguez told Pipe Dream that events like the Dominican Independence Day celebration help to unite the diaspora and foster connection.

Amelia Guzman, co-fundraiser chair for DSA and a junior majoring in anthropology, spoke highly of the event and its organizers. She advocated for the importance of a greater Hispanic community in the current political climate.

“I think it’s very important to have an event where it showcases not necessarily just Dominican culture, but a place where Latinos and Hispanic people can come together and create community and unity, especially in times like these, where it kind of feels like you’re not welcome,” Guzman said.