The Dominican Senate Receives Congratulatory Resolution from the New York State Senate

Luis R. Sepúlveda

March 12, 2024

In a significant gesture of international solidarity and cultural recognition, the Dominican Senate warmly received a resolution from the New York State Senate, commemorating the 180th anniversary of the independence of the Dominican Republic. The resolution, delivered by Quemuel Arroyo, Chief Accessibility Officer at the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), and accompanied by New York State Senator Luis Sepúlveda, highlights the enduring ties and shared values between New York and the Dominican Republic.

This historic presentation took place in Santo Domingo, during an event at the Dominican Senate. The occasion was marked by the warm reception of Senator Sepúlveda and Mr. Arroyo by the distinguished members of the Dominican Senate, including Senate Vice President Faride Raful; Alexis Victoria Yeb, Majority Spokesperson; Yvan Lorenzo, Minority Spokesperson; Milciades Franjul, Senator for Peravia; Lia Diaz, Senator for Azúa; Santiago Zorrilla, Senator for El Seibo; Antonio Marte, Senator for Santiago Rodriguez; and Virgilio Cedano, Senator for La Altagracia. These senators represent the commitment and diversity of political representation in the Dominican Republic, symbolizing the deep connections and mutual respect between the two nations.

Quemuel Arroyo, a prominent figure in New York’s Dominican community and a leader in promoting accessibility and inclusivity, was chosen for his notable contributions and to symbolize the strong ties and shared heritage between the Dominican Republic and New York. His role in this diplomatic exchange underscores the importance of the Dominican diaspora in enriching New York’s cultural landscape and fostering international dialogue.

The resolution, initially accepted by Arroyo in a ceremony in Albany on the Dominican Republic’s Independence Day, represents a significant acknowledgment of the Dominican Republic’s journey to independence and its vibrant culture. Accompanied by a concurrent resolution from the Assembly, led by Dominican Assemblywoman Yudelka Tapia, the delivery of these resolutions serves as a testament to the shared history and future aspirations of the Dominican and New York communities.

Reflecting on the event, Arroyo stated, “Delivering this resolution to the Dominican Senate is not just a personal honor but also a symbol of the strong cultural and historical ties that bind the Dominican Republic and New York. This gesture of goodwill from the New York State Senate celebrates our shared heritage and the contributions of Dominicans to the global community.”

This occasion not only commemorates the independence of the Dominican Republic but also reinforces New York State’s commitment to celebrating and honoring the contributions of the Dominican community. It serves as a reminder of the power of cultural exchange and the importance of fostering connections that transcend geographical boundaries.

Quemuel Arroyo:

Quemuel Arroyo is the Chief Accessibility Officer at the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). A passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusivity, Arroyo’s leadership has been instrumental in improving the travel experience for all New Yorkers. As a proud Dominican-American, he embodies the spirit of community service and the building of cultural bridges.