New York State Senator Luis Sepúlveda Commemorates Dominican Independence Day and Recognizes Dominican Contributions to New York

Albany, NY - February 27, 2024 - New York State Senator Luis Sepúlveda rose to recognize a pivotal moment not only in the history of the Dominican Republic but also in the ongoing narrative of Dominican contributions to the vibrant tapestry of New York. As the Senate commemorated the 180th anniversary of Dominican Independence, Senator Sepúlveda highlighted the significant impact of Dominican New Yorkers on the fabric of our society. 

Resolution number J1598, enacted to celebrate this historic occasion, serves as a poignant acknowledgment of the indelible mark left by Dominican immigrants in the great state of New York. From the bustling streets of Washington Heights to the dynamic neighborhoods of the Bronx and beyond, Dominican Americans have enriched our communities with their culture, resilience, and unwavering spirit. 

During a solemn session in the Senate, seven senators delivered speeches honoring the legacy of Dominican Independence Day. Among them was Senator Sepúlveda, who underscored the invaluable contributions of individuals like Mr. Quemuel Arroyo. A proud Dominican New Yorker, Mr. Arroyo has distinguished himself as a trailblazer and advocate for accessibility in the city. As the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's first agencywide Chief Accessibility Officer, he champions inclusivity and equal access to transportation for all New Yorkers. 

Senator Sepúlveda emphasized that Mr. Arroyo's story is emblematic of the countless ways in which Dominicans make New York a better place each day. His dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to service serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all. 

In a significant gesture of friendship and cooperation, Mr. Arroyo was named as the symbolic ambassador to deliver the New York Senate resolution to our counterparts in the Dominican Senate. This act underscores the enduring bond shared between the two nations and serves as a testament to the strong relationship between New York and the Dominican Republic. 

Furthermore, in a separate ceremony held at the Capitol Building in Albany, Senator Sepúlveda had the honor of presenting, on behalf of the office of President Biden, the Presidential Volunteer Award Medal to Mr. Arroyo for his exceptional volunteer work in the community, particularly in service to people with disabilities and underserved communities. 

Senator Sepúlveda concluded by reaffirming our commitment to fostering greater understanding, cooperation, and mutual respect between our nations. He expressed his hope that we continue to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic and the enduring bond shared between our peoples.