Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., and La Gran Parada Dominicana de El Bronx, today announced the Dominican Pride events leading up to the Bronx Dominican Parade, one of the largest parades in the city. During a press conference, Diaz also presented the parade organizers, Rosa Ayala and Felipe Febles, with a proclamation declaring July 17th through July 26th Bronx Dominican Parade Week.This year’s celebrations will feature weekend concerts, conferences, the annual Gala Banquet and other events starting on Tuesday, July 21, culminating with the 20th Grand Dominican Parade in The Bronx, which will take place on Sunday, July 26. Over 2,000 marchers including marching bands, folkloric groups, artists, elected officials and a variety of groups representing the Dominican culture and traditions will take part in the parade.

“This week long festivity has become a great opportunity to recognize our growing Dominican-American population and their contributions to The Bronx and the entire city,” said Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz Jr, one of this year’s parade grand marshals. “ I want to invite all Bronxites to join me on Sunday to celebrate the beauty and culture of this important community”In addition, the parade will recognize the achievements of Dominican-American students from different colleges in the city, a scholarship program created to encourage students to stay in school. Hundreds of students have benefited from the program thanks to the sponsorship of private organizations.

Calendar of Events:
July 21st, 2009
VIP Tour of the Yankee Stadium for the honorees, marshals and dignitaries that have traveled from far to take part of these festivities

July 22nd, 2009
Trolley Tour of the Bronx Zoo honorees, marshals and dignitaries
July 22nd, 2009 – 7:30pm
Abrazo Dominicano Celebration
Maestros Catering Hall on Bronxdale Avenue

July 23rd, 2009 – 7:30pm
Gala Banquet at the Marina del Rey

July 24th – 25h
Grand Finale of the Street Festival and Concert
Clay Avenue & 173rd Street

July 26th – 8:30am
VIP Breakfast at Eugenia Maria de Hostos Community College
450 Grand Concourse

July 26th, 2009 – 1pm
20th Annual Dominican Day Parade
Starting on the Grand Concourse at East Tremont Avenue to 167th Street