Last Monday, May 22, 2023, the State of New York announced news that was received with joy and recognition by the Dominican community and the United Bodegas Of America, better known as UBA.
June 25 of each year was decreed as ‘Bodeguero’s Day’, in order to honor the work of all these people who dedicate themselves to their bodegas stores, especially in the tri-state area.
In a regular session of the Assembly, this day, June 25, was officially decreed as the “Día del Bodeguero” (Bodegueros’s Day). “Day of the Bodeguero”.. This declaration was made in honor of the second issue of “Dominicans in Albany”an annual celebration of the Dominican community in New York State.
Official records indicate that there are more than 17,000 bodegas in New York State, and more than 75% of them are owned by Dominicans. These businesses have become one of the most representative commercial pillars of the Dominican community in terms of entrepreneurship and economic contribution.
Bodegas are convenience stores that play a crucial role in New York’s urban communities. In addition to providing essential commodities and services, such as food, beverages and staples, bodegas have become meeting places and social connections for many residents. They are spaces where stories are shared, trusting relationships are established and community bonds are forged.
The Dominican community has played a key role in the creation and growth of these bodegas in New York. Dominican immigrants have invested their time, effort and resources in establishing and maintaining these businesses, thus contributing to the local economy and generating employment for other members of the community.
The official recognition of the “Bodeguero’s Day is a significant gesture by the State of New York to honor and value the work and dedication of Dominican Bodega’s owners and employees as well as the United Bodegas Of America. This announcement not only celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and economic contribution of the Dominican community, but also highlights the importance of bodegas as commercial and social pillars in local communities.
The “Winemaker Day will provide an opportunity to publicly highlight and recognize the vital role these establishments play in the social fabric of New York. It will be an occasion to thank winemakers for their hard work, their service to the community and their commitment to the well-being of those around them.
In addition to the official celebration, it is important to continue supporting Dominican bodegas and the community as a whole. Consumers can choose to shop at these local stores, which will help strengthen their economy and foster their development. Training and business assistance programs can also be promoted to help bodegueros prosper and expand their businesses.
The declaration of the “Day of the Bodeguero” Ordinance is a reminder of cultural diversity and the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of all communities in New York State. It is a well-deserved recognition of the Dominican community and a testament to its entrepreneurial spirit and influence on the daily life of the city.
Find out more details about the celebration of this day through our social networks.
Become a member of the tri-state area’s largest network of winemakers here.
