5th Bronx Documentary Center Latin American Foto Festival

On view July 2022.

“For my brother’s tenth birthday, my parents rented out the play area in the McDonald’s near Hunts Point. We didn’t have a lot growing up and as adults we’ve realized how much they sacrificed for us to have special moments. All the cousins got together and we were so happy with happy meals and cake.”

McDonald’s, Hunts Point, The Bronx, July 1998. Carmen, Juan and Michael Quezada celebrating Michael’s birthday.
© Nuevayorkinos / Sobella Quezada.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

“Michelle (age 16) giving In Living Color, Fly Girl vibes at the hot spot, John F. Kennedy High School parking lot. During the golden era of hip hop. When cutting classes and long lunch periods involved watching cars drive by with the booming system.” 

Marble Hill, The Bronx, 1991. Michelle at John F. Kennedy High School parking lot. © Nuevayorkinos / Michelle Velez-Manon.

“When basketball games on the corner were an event and domino games by the bodega were intense. Every season is special in New York City but New York City summers are unmatched, and the Bronx in particular comes alive.”

198th Street, Kingsbridge, The Bronx, 1990s. Michelle Velez-Manon & Michael Velez. © Nuevayorkinos / Michelle Velez-Manon.

“Before hip-hop began to reach mainstream audiences it wasn’t just music in the Bronx. It was a way of life. My beloved Christopher, set precedence by dressing as the everyday individuals within the Bronx and throughout New York. This was a season when a triple fat goose and kangol bucket hats became hot commodities. Little did anyone know that our fashion would off set change during the 80’s and would go on to set the blueprint for 90’s hip-hop fashion as we continued to see pieces from the 80’s worn in the 90’s and still worn today. This was a time when working turntables were put together to mix at parks throughout the South Bronx.”

Grand Concourse, The Bronx, 1985. Christopher Manon at Joyce Kilmer Park. © Nuevayorkinos / Michelle Velez-Manon.

Countries of Origin: Puerto Rico & Dominican Republic

“We were in the middle of playing in front of our apartment building like we usually did when the weather was nice. We lived with our grandparents who were very protective of us (and strict!), and it was a privilege to play out in the front as long as we weren’t too loud. I’d race up and down half the block on my scooter while my brother tried to see if he can outrun me on his feet. I still remember the sound of the 6 train running every few minutes and the buses down the street.”

Elder Avenue, Soundview, The Bronx, 2007. Katherine Oquendo and her little brother Gabriel. Taken by their mother, Joanne. © Nuevayorkinos / Katherine Oquendo.

Countries of Origin: Puerto Rico & Cuba

“My family and I came to this country in 1995, making our home in the Bronx. In this picture you will see myself on the far left, my brother Regis Medrano, mother Maria, sister Teresa Medrano, and father Jose. This picture was taken shortly after we arrived in 1995 during our Tia’s Christmas party, in her living room. This was the same living room that we lived in, we came to the country and lived in her apartment, where all 5 of us slept in her living room. This picture signifies the grind that we have come from. Although our parents are no longer together we still celebrate Christmas together as a family. My brother Regis and I are accomplished resident regional managers in the healthcare industry, and my sister Teresa is an accomplished healthcare director with a masters degree on criminal psychology. I am currently using my spare time as an author. My books are largely based on the old ways of my country and the way we were raised up. I call my book series ‘rich immigrant’.”

Morris Heights, The Bronx, December, 1995. Jose Medrano (on the far left) with his brother Regis, mother Maria, sister Teresa, and father Jose shortly after their arrival to the U.S. © Nuevayorkinos / Jose Medrano.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

“The little girl in the black and white picture is of me back in 1991 in the South Bronx. This photo was taken by New York Times photographer, Angel Franco, who was on his way to a Halloween party. He was captivated of this innocent young girl who seemed so sad and afraid standing outside of an abandoned neighborhood where the Bronx in the 90s was rough. But it wasn’t the neighborhood and it’s ruins that had me sad and afraid, if only you really knew the true story of this day when this photo was captured.”

South Bronx, 1991. Maria on Halloween. © Nuevayorkinos / Maria Guissette.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“This photo was taken of me in front of the foster house I lived in from 1997-2001. It was on Tenbroeck Avenue between Allerton and Arnow. The year before my mother gave up her parental right and I was to remain in foster care until I aged out. I started smiling a lot more this year and really connecting with the kids in my block. My bestfriend at the time was a neighbor who was also in foster care and she took this pic. I’m wearing the North Face diamond jacket in this pic. It was a gift from my 6th grade home room teacher Ms. Arundell from Michealangelo MS 144. I’m not sure if she knew about my situation at home but one day she asked me to stay after school and gave me this coat. I was so grateful and I remember crying when she gave it to me. Back then this coat was trending and many girls had it in my school and she told me I deserved it.”

Tenbroeck Avenue, Allerton, The Bronx, 2000s. Crystal Vidal in front of the foster house she lived in from 1997-2001. © Nuevayorkinos / Crystal Vidal.

“This is me and my younger sister during one of our family visits at the agency. I would take the train from uptown BX to the South Bronx every Wednesday to see my siblings. Sometimes their foster parents would bring them and sometimes they wouldn’t. My mom had 12 kids, 11 of which were in Foster Care. The older siblings protected the younger siblings from foster parents or foster siblings from abusing them. I came to my siblings defense many times. We were Bebe’s kids 2.0.” 

E. 137th and Alexander Avenue, Mott Haven, The Bronx, 2001. Crystal and Christina Vidal at St Dominic’s Foster Care Agency. © Nuevayorkinos / Crystal Vidal.

Countries of Origin: Puerto Rico & Guyana

“My grandmother would always pick us up and drive us around in a big blue ‘church’ van . I dont know why she got that particular van , but she got it lol All of us cousins together .. joking, arguing, laughing, sleeping, taking pictures or just chillin on the block with all our aunts and uncles . This side of my family is Dominican .. my mother who is puerto rican , would send us (me and Pusu) to the bronx through out the summers to be with my Dominican side of the family and spend time with them . My grandmother who passed away in 2020, due to complications, was the heart of the family, the glue, the rose who grew from concrete . Everyone in this photo has stories about this van, about my grandmother and about all the times in the early 90s , that we got closer because of her, my grandmother . This was one of the summers we spent in The Bronx . Me and my sister were born in the bronx and lived on the same block this picture was taken , Stratford Ave by the 6 Line . We moved to Brooklyn and my Dominican side stood in the bronx . Years later i eventually moved back to The Bronx & every now and then i see certain streets or spots and it brings me back to those years and when my grandmother was alive . i can still hear her voice saying ‘mi gordo’ , ‘I love you’ & her cute lil laugh . The Bronx is the last authentic place in NYC .. with memories like this , It will always be & to all the beautiful grandmothers .. we love you … i miss mine .” 

Stratford Avenue, Soundview, The Bronx, 1990s. Harlem, Jeanette, Ronnie, Rickelby, Pusu, Francelin, and Mikey in Mikey’s grandmother’s big blue ‘church’ van. © Nuevayorkinos / Miguel “Mikey” Candelario

Countries of Origin: Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico

“My mother always wanted me. She would tell me that she tried so hard to have me. After 4 miscarriages, prayers to San Miguel Arcangel & San Geraldo, chicharrones for dinner and one good disapproval kick from me, I came into this world. The baby she always wanted. My mother, coming from Tegucigalpa, Honduras with a Masters in Education, became a Paraprofessional in a New York City public school. I recall her leaving me in care of my Abuela, her mother, and going to work. She would go to be with kids, to then come back to be with her kid. She would tell me that she would come home exhausted, praying that I wouldn’t ask to go to the park, but that was our thing. If weather permitted and her prayer for rain went unanswered, we were at the park on Brown Park East or on the one on Pelham Parkway North.

That was the kind of mother she was–she would go anything and everything to make sure I was good. Coming into adulthood meant seeing how she wasn’t ‘good’. As an adult, I came to see that my mother’s childhood trauma had a hold on her and therefore heavily impacted our Mother-Daughter relationship. Being the first born meant she gave me several roles: the role of daughter, the leader, the first to do what she couldn’t, her best friend, her confidant, and sometimes, even the role of her mother. This undoubtedly strained our relationship. I was determined to break our generational trauma. It was something I wanted to do for her and for us. And then COVID took her from me on May 21, 2020, just 6 days after I turned 31. My mother leaving this earth meant me remaining here to complete that mission. My mother is the reason I am strong–in all aspects of the word. My mother is the reason I draw strength from religion.  I can do earthly things to give freedom and space to her spirit. Whatever Trauma didn’t allow us to do on Earth, I’m here to do for us both, Si Dios Quiere. And I like to think that this photo….is how she’s protecting me, watching me do it.”

Pelham Parkway, Pelham, The Bronx, 1990s. Madre solo hay Una. Diana and her mother Rosa. © Nuevayorkinos / Diana Villada.

Country of Origin: Honduras

Orchard Beach, The Bronx, July 2009. Inmarie Garcia, 5 months pregnant, enjoying the summer. © Nuevayorkinos / Inmarie Garcia.

Countries of Origin: Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico

“The Bronx symbolized the ‘made it’ moment for my great-grandfather who we called Abuelo Cruz. He grew up in Canovanas, Puerto Rico and worked long hours at the sugar cane factory. His wife, my grandma’s stepmother, wanted to move to New York so he did all he could to make that dream happen. When he saved enough to bring over all his children, they rented a room in El Barrio. 4 kids and 2 adults in ONE room. Eventually he saved enough money to buy a home on Bryant Avenue near Freeman street in 1961. He was convinced the city would one day see the beauty of the Bronx and buy him out but unfortunately he didn’t live to see that day. He passed away in 1994. The home was sold by family members years later. I had good memories visiting his home on Sundays where his wife would make delicious arroz con gandules, and pernil among other dishes. El Bronx has a special place in my heart to this day.”

Bryant Avenue and Freeman Street, South Bronx, The Bronx, 1950s-1960s. Abuelo Cruz at his home, and Katie with her grandparents. © Nuevayorkinos / Katie Vasquez.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“My parents knew that education was the key to a better future and they established it as one of my core values early on by never missing an educational milestone - be it an award ceremony, holiday play or (biggest of them all) a graduation. By celebrating my educational achievements no matter how small, they were able to experience the education they never had - my mom was able to make an Iroquois longhouse out of popsicle sticks and my dad helped me balance a t-sheet for my accounting 101 class. My favorite of our projects was when we recreated the flag from our country of origin, Ecuador. We carefully cut the flag out of construction paper and clipped the coat of arms from a Time Magazine. It was the first time I learned the symbolism of our flag and what it means to us. I felt proud to be building on a strong foundation. Today, my love of their legacy extends to the Bronx, where my parents chose to build a life for us over three decades ago. I plan to harvest the fruits of their wisdom, and continue building on the tenets they have given to me. I couldn't do it without them.”

St. Brendan's Church, Norwood, The Bronx, 1998. Luis, Elena, and Marianela at Marianela’s kindergarten graduation. © Nuevayorkinos / Marianela Villao.

Country of Origin: Ecuador

“Three generation of women sitting side by side remind me of the poem I’m struggling to write. I asked my mother why this picture of me, her, and my grandmother is her favorite and she said because of its purity. Though when I look at it, I see tenacity and its ability to mask itself as strong women. Even little me, unbeknownst to the world’s heavy hands, is carrying the knapsack of my family’s past in that photo. In the moment the camera flashed, my mother was nineteen years old, my grandmother was forty-four, and I sat between them at one. The mind is a shovel at which my past comes to life, and this photo, sitting in St. Mary’s Park comes to the surface every time. That’s why when my mother chose this photo, I was shocked that she had chosen a photo that was also one of my favorites. I was too young to latch onto any recollection of this day, but I know there’s slivers of photons that make this photo beam to greatness. There’s history in this photo that reveal the parts of me I desire the most. There’s nostalgia in this photo because my grandmother no longer wears baggy graphic t-shirts and jeans with bangs covering her forehead anymore. She laughs, but I know they wish for a more youthful time. There’s the Bronx in this photo. I can hear its rumbling song. There’s a home in this photo because when I hold it close, I’m reminded that love travels through time.”

St. Mary's Park, Mott Haven, Spring 1995. Giovanna Ayala, Krystalina Padilla, and Esther Ayala. © Nuevayorkinos / Krystalina Padilla.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“Remember when
kids playing outside, ‘Afuera!’
laughing, running, and screaming, ‘You are it!’
jumping double dutch, 
listening to the wires of the cord smacking on the concrete floor 
songs flowing in every corner of the block
singing Miss Mary Mack and Down Down Baby all day long 
how about the lady selling limbels from the first-floor window 
getting wet from la pompa, which was our water park - free 99.
DJ Goldo playing old-school 80s and 90s music all day long 
stickball with the whole comunidad 
the stop time for us was sitting on the hood of cars, bochinchando, snapping and scheming.
scheming what to do the next day on a hot summer day in Da Bronx.”

Creston Avenue, Fordham, The Bronx, 1990s. Frances, Tania, and friends running through La Pompa, and Jose Fabian Figueroa playing stickball. © Nuevayorkinos / Frances Rivera.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

IMAGE 1:

“The Puerto Rican flag is an affirmation, a celebration, an expression of the great heritage Puerto Ricans have made in the Bronx, NYC, and this nation. Parades such as the Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade are a great way to bring families together and teach kids about the rich culture, traditions, and history of our people. Teaching kids about Puerto Rico is an important lesson in U.S. history. So many people don't know that Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory and that island- based Puerto Ricans are American citizens. But many people know about our Puerto Rican pride and our red, white and blue with the lone star flag.”

Grand Concourse, The Bronx, May 21, 2006. Star Kids of the Puerto Rico Sun Communications Project in the Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade. © Nuevayorkinos / Clarisel González.

IMAGE 2:

“The Day Without an Immigrant (also known as The Great American Boycott) protest was part of a major nationwide effort where residents, many of them undocumented immigrants, skipped school and work and avoided making purchases for the day as part of a show of force and opposition to anti-immigrant laws pending in Congress. Demonstrations were especially felt in major U.S. cities including New York City. The protesters, most of them Latino, chanted slogans like ‘Si se puede,’ wore white T-Shirts, dressed like the Statue of Liberty or wrapped themselves with the USA flag. They hit the streets and made their presence felt in the Bronx, NYC and throughout this country. Marchers crossed the bridge from the Bronx to upper Manhattan in protest. Then they boarded the #1 train downtown to the Union Square rally. Photo taken as part of PRSUN Communications project.”

University Heights, The Bronx, May 1, 2006. A Day Without Immigrants Bronx Protest. © Nuevayorkinos / Clarisel González.

IMAGES 3 - 4:

“The holidays are so much better with food made with love. Mami is from Rincón, Puerto Rico. She got married and moved to NYC in 1969 with my father. While mami has spent most of her life in the South Bronx where she raised two children, Puerto Rico will always be home. She definitely has passed on that love of Puerto Rican culture and heritage to me. I am grateful.”

Mott Haven, The Bronx, November 30, 2008. Mami's Pasteles. Milagros González prepares her Puerto Rican pasteles for the Christmas season. © Nuevayorkinos / Clarisel González.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“We were all born in the 1980s and grew up in the University Heights neighborhood of the Bronx. A community that has been systematically disinvested in for a long time starting with white flight in the 1960s and NYU abandoning its eponymous neighborhood in 1973, leading to the city neglecting this community as more Puerto Ricans and Black people migrated there. My parents moved to 183rd Street and Davidson from Washington Heights where my older sister and I were born after my parents immigrated from the Dominican Republic. The struggle shaped my two sisters and me as we came of age in University Heights, but through it all we are proud Bronxites to the core. The Bronx will forever be my heart.”

183rd Street and Davidson Avenue, University Heights, The Bronx, 1988, and 2000, respectively. Alelur as a kid at home, and with his sisters. © Nuevayorkinos / Alelur “Alex” Duran.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

IMAGE 1:

The Bronx, 198708. Dee, Lee, and Joe on their way to Fordham. © Nuevayorkinos / Lee Ayala.

IMAGES 2 - 4:

“Tito Rojas y El Gran Combo would visit us in our South Bronx apt to perform, play dominoes and eat my mother Carmen Luyando’s cooking. This is on my 16th birthday, February ’99. At the time I didn’t realize how significant this was because they’d come over all the time but now I do. To have one of the greatest salsa singers and band play in home was HUGE and truly an honor. I’m grateful for the experience.”

The Bronx, February 1999. Lee Ayala celebrating her 16th birthday with Tito Rojas and other salseros. © Nuevayorkinos / Lee Ayala.

IMAGE 5:

The South Bronx, Halloween early ‘80s. Lee and her older sister Danette with their grandmother Modesta Santana, who was visiting from Puerto Rico. © Nuevayorkinos / Lee Ayala.

IMAGE 6:

“Here’s a cool photo of my dad Angel Ayala in NYC During the 80’s. He was from Naguabo, P.R. My mother found out he was a closeted gay man and it’s why she moved to NYC with us when we were little. He died from the AIDS epidemic.”  

New York, 1980s. Angel Ayala. © Nuevayorkinos / Lee Ayala.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“At this point, we had been together for almost four years. Though to see us together, you might’ve thought it was longer. We have a chemistry that is undeniable. There’s never been an obstacle that we couldn’t overcome or a headache that we couldn’t ease, together. Oddly enough, when we first met we did not like each other. She felt I was too confiansu y relambio. I found her to be seca y odiosa. When we finally got around to speaking we became fast friends. I knew within weeks that I had found my future wife. 

This picture was taken on the day of my graduation from Lehman College. She was wiping an eyelash from my face. A beautiful, sunny day, no clouds in sight. Those of us graduating would be under tents and guests unfortunately were left out to toast in the sun. 

Eileen was hugely instrumental in me making it to this graduation. Early in our relationship, I seemed to be walking through life aimlessly, not unstable just without direction. I would talk about us getting married and having children, but had no tangible plan. She asked how a marriage and family would work if I didn’t maintain a stable job, go to school or save any money. 

I hadn’t yet given up on school, but I wasn’t proactive in trying to graduate. I was working a sales job that required lots of my time but only paid in commission. My lack of sales success led to zero pay and the time I was dedicating there kept me out of school for two semesters. 

It’s hard to plan a life with an uncooperative partner. She was busy going to school and working full time to pay that tuition. ‘How do you plan on moving forward?’ This question would always come up. I never had a good answer, I didn’t believe enough in myself to map out a plan.

With her help, I built up my confidence and went back to school. I left that dead-end job and got one that actually gave me a regular paycheck. In an effort to keep me focused, we spent time together at the library studying. Working together on our assignments and reviewing for exams. Encouraging and supporting one another. 

Coincidentally she graduated from school just the week before. Watching her walk across the stage to receive her diploma filled me with pride and joy. It took me four years longer than anticipated. In the end, though, I don’t regret it. This time in our lives helped to form a bond that grows stronger every day. To have her by my side as I received my diploma, was reassuring and exciting.  

So much has happened in the 14 years since the day of this picture. We have been fortunate to  travel and experience the world, get married, purchase a home, and start a family. More importantly, we have built a true partnership, one that we hope will serve as an inspiration to our daughters.”

Lehman College, May 29, 2008. Henry Suarez and his then-girlfriend, now wife Eileen Mota Suarez at his graduation. © Nuevayorkinos / Henry Suarez.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

IMAGE 1:

“This picture was taken at my first communion on June 14th, 1986 at St. Peter and Paul church in the south Bronx. I remember this day perfectly because although I look happy in this picture, I was far from it.

At the time I was living with my godfather and enduring emotional and physical abuse. It was downright torture! I always managed to put up a good front and make those around me think otherwise, but those who truly knew me, understood my pain. I grew up without my mother and my dad was serving time when this picture was taken. It was the only picture I would send to him while he was incarcerated.

While he was in prison, he ran into my uncle from my mother's side. He asked my dad how I was doing and mentioned my mother had been looking for me for many years now. He also asked my dad if he could have the picture so he could send it to her. My dad obliged and the picture was sent.

Fast forward almost 25 years. After searching and searching, my mother was finally able to locate me. Although I was hesitant at first, I finally agreed to meet with her. I was anxious to meet my brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews. I had never met them and grew up without having known my own mother, let alone my biological siblings.

The first time I went to my mothers house was on the day I first met her. As I walked in, the first thing I noticed before anything was this picture sitting on her mantle. The same picture I sent to my dad 25 years before.

On the back of the picture were the same words I wrote to him, and the crease where I had folded it so it could fit in the envelope was still present. This picture had come full circle. Life is funny that way!

The BX....what didn't kill us made us stronger!”

St. Peter and Paul Church, The South Bronx, July 14, 1986. Julio at his first communion. © Nuevayorkinos / Julio Jordan.

IMAGE 2:

“Crazy to think this picture was taken on my 10th birthday. By that time, I had witnessed extreme poverty, homelessness, abuse, drugs, stick ups, murders, and everything unimaginable.

Just 3 months after this picture was taken, I witnessed my dad kill a man. At that time I was also the bummiest kid going into the 5th grade. Not long after, I was the kid everyone came to for fashion advice. I went from duct taped, no name sneakers to leather bombers, sheepskin coats with the hat to match, striped Lee jeans and Lotto, Fila, Adidas, etc.

I'm not smiling, because life was far from sweet. I learned at an early age to hide my pain. I also learned to be careful what I wished for because I got it....and regretted it each and every day! It was what it was and I survived.

The thing about me is I never forget where I came from. I grew up without my mother. My dad was always a hustler. I wished for something when I blew out the candles and realized at a young age that one should be careful what he wishes for. I endured a lot of pain....in my later years thankfully I enjoyed true happiness.

At the end of the day I have lived the life that was meant for me to live. I am surrounded by the people who love me and that I truly am grateful for.

Some may say I'm lucky....but me, I know I am blessed! Always thankful! Always blessed! The BX....what didn't kill us made us stronger!!!”

Elton Avenue and E. 160th Street, The Bronx, July 4, 1985. L to R: Bambi, Rambo, Idaliz and Julio. © Nuevayorkinos / Julio Jordan.

IMAGES 3 - 6:

“A little over five years ago, my dad passed on from this world. My dad raised me practically on his own until he was incarcerated. I had just turned 10. Although he was always on the streets, hustling to make a buck, he always had me by his side. As a child, I could not fathom the idea of not having him around but 35 years ago this week he was taken from me and I thought I had lost him forever. The next 5 years were really rough. The person who kept me safe from harm wasn't there to protect me; he was no longer by my side. Many bad things happened but thankfully I survived. In October of 1990 he was released from prison and we were reunited,  but things were different. I was different. He convinced me to leave the Bronx in 1992 and this ultimately saved my life. We had our ups and downs but regardless of the situation, I was always by his side. I handled all of his affairs and up to the night before he ended up in the hospital for the very last time, we always spoke and saw each other. Saturday, August 29th, 2015 we spoke as usual. He told me he was fine and we both said I love you. I told him I would see him the next day. He said OK and went to bed. The next day he went into cardiac arrest and was rushed to the hospital at about the same time I was on my way to visit him. He was resuscitated after 17 minutes, but he never regained consciousness. For two days my world spun; I was in a daze. So many thoughts, so many decisions to make. Ultimately I honored his wishes and at 7:26 pm on Tuesday September 1st, 2015 I had his breathing tube removed. Most painful decision of my life but I knew it had to be done. All exams came back negative and he was brain dead. I slept at the hospital and spent his last days by his side. I caressed his face, told him I loved him and held his hand as the tube was removed. I held him close as his breaths became shorter and more faint. After a few minutes he passed away, peacefully, no longer dealing with any pain or suffering. He was there by my side for my first breath; I was there by his side for his last. It's the circle of life, I guess....”

The Bronx, 1981-2010. Ernesto Jordan over the years. © Nuevayorkinos / Julio Jordan.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

IMAGES 1-2:

Joe’s Place Restaurant, The Bronx, 2001, and The Fountain at Metropolitan Oval, Parkchester Avenue, 2001, respectively. Jose Antonio Espinal-Taveras with his granddaughter Bella at her Baptism dinner, and sitting with his granddaughter at The Fountain. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.

IMAGE 3:

Andrews Avenue, The Bronx, 2000. Ace and Puchi with their 1st-born, Bella. Real love and Hip Hop. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.

IMAGE 4:

Roberto Clemente State Park 301 W. Tremont Avenue, 1997. Ace and Puchi’s mother Nini, celebrating Ace’s birthday. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.

IMAGE 5:

Parkchester Park, The Bronx, 2001. Puchi and her daughter. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.

IMAGES 6-7:

Joe's Place Restaurant, 1841 Westchester Avenue, The Bronx, 2003 and 2001, respectively. La Puchi with her family, brother Elvin, best friend Cary, and her daughter; and La Puchi with Ace and their daughter Bella at La Puchi’s first live performance at Joe's Place Restaurant. She sang Selena Quintanilla’s “Si Una Vez”. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.


IMAGES 8-9:

1520 Sedgwick Avenue, Hip Hop Boulevard, 2000. Nini, Madrina Mayra, La Puchi and Ace’s at their baby shower for their 1st born daughter. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.

IMAGES 10-11:

1860 Billingsley Terrace, The Bronx, 1989 and 1990, respectively. La Puchi crowned Ms. Dominican Billingsley Terrace Miss Universe. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.


IMAGE 12:

Holy Spirit Catholic Church, School Auditorium, 1940 University Avenue, The Bronx, September 1993. La Puchi's Quinceañera, and yes, the entire cake is cake. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.


IMAGES 13-15:

1860 Billingsley Terrace, The Bronx, 1978 and 1982, respectively. La Puchi as a baby in the arms of her father Jose Antonio Espinal-Taveras; La Puchi and her family; and from l to r: cousins Fuegiezy, Velli DaBelly, and La Puchi. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.

IMAGES 16-17:

The Bronx Zoo and Parkchester, The Bronx, 2002. La Puchi with her children at the zoo, and on a walk to her parents house. © Nuevayorkinos / La Puchi.

Countries of Origin: Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico

“I remember posing for this photo and hoping it was over before anybody saw me. I didn’t like a lot of attention and people staring at me. I just turned 14 yrs old the Summer of 1988, I was awkward and trying to figure out my style and personality. Fast forward to 2022 I’m still trying to figure it out! I did love my new curly mullet haircut which was held together by L.A Looks Mega hold styling gel. If you know you know!  I no longer have that mullet but the memories will last a lifetime.”

52 Park, Longwood, The Bronx, 1988. Yesenia “Jessie” Ojeda. © Nuevayorkinos / Yesenia Ojeda.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“As a child, I wanted to be like Sammy Sosa. Two fingers to the chest; two fingers to the lips. A Dominican hero was mastering America’s pastime. There wasn’t much representation for a family migrating to The Bronx, so I identified with the baseball king from Chicago. You can imagine the heartbreak & confusion when I got older and found out he had bleached his skin. For the first time, I questioned the body I was in. But growing up around women, my mother & grandmother always taught me patience, self-love, & forgiveness. Ultimately leading me to forgive others & myself.”

The Bronx, 1998. Josué with his mother, and grandmother. © Nuevayorkinos / Josué Caceres.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

“My Mom told me this photo was taken by my Welita on the rooftop of their 5-story building in Mott Haven. My Welita left Ponce with her 3 children to The Bronx in search for a better life in 1973. I'm reminded of the meme 'Bronx Women are the toughest Men in NYC', I chuckle because I know it's facts. I can only imagine what it's like to raise three children at 24 in a foreign land with little support and a new language to learn.  But she did what she needed to do to ensure that her children were able to have and do better.  I'm forever grateful for all the sacrifices she and my Mom and Dad made to make sure we did just a little better than they did. I love photography because you can capture a memory for both the people in the photo and the people taking it.  I now feel like I know what Welita was thinking, using this expensive film to capture this moment in time.  In 1979, on this Easter Sunday on the rooftop of their 2 bedroom apartment in The Bronx, my Welita realized what was looking for: Home."

Mott Haven, Easter, 1979. Mike with his mother Ilka and uncles Joey and Anthony. © Nuevayorkinos / Michael Hamlett Jr.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“I came to the United States when I was 10 years old with my little sister Gigi and my mom, Veronica.  We left my two brothers and one older sister in Lima, Peru with my father.  My mom married a Cuban guy that she met in the Cuban restaurant El Faro on Southern Boulevard in her previous trip to the United States.  My mom worked as a seamstress day and night for many years until she was able to pursue her dream and buy her own dress factory at 138th and Southern Blvd.  Unfortunately she died soon after that and the factory closed.  Even though my mom worked hard every day, she made sure she had time for her children on weekends. This picture was taken in St. Mary’s Park in the heart of the South Bronx around 1974.  My mom used to take us there on weekends to picnic, roller skate and in the winter we would slide on the big frozen rock with pieces of cardboard we would find nearby.  My dog Duke would also come along and play with us for many hours while my mom rested under a shady tree. My mom made it possible for me, the one with the roller skates, to also achieve my dreams by graduating from State University of New York at Albany and Michigan State University.  I currently teach Spanish in Texas and I am writing a book about my mother, Rosas para Veronica.”

St. Mary’s Park, The Bronx, 1974. Emma and her sister Gigi with their dog Duke. © Nuevayorkinos / Emma Mauri.

Country of Origin: Peru

“My father Melvin pictured with his two older siblings, Peter and Lucy in the first picture. Their cousin Raysa is pictured with them in the second and third picture, on Easter Sunday 1965 on Colgate Avenue in Soundview, South Bronx. Their mami, and my abuela, Dulce Flavia Flerida de la Rosa Nina Ruffini, migrated to The Bronx in 1956 from San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic. My Grandmother received her Juris Doctorate from Universidad de Santo Domingo, established in 1538–the first university on the Western Hemisphere. Upon arrival to the US, my abuela though highly educated and qualified, relied on her embroidery skills and seamstress work to provide—as most immigrant women of color did at the time. Nevertheless, she worked diligently and tirelessly, bringing my dad to work as an infant in a cardboard box her factory employer offered her. My grandma attended night school at CUNY City College eventually receiving her masters in English Language Learning Education, and becoming an NYC DOE teacher. 

Today I follow in her footsteps working on my own teacher certifications. Often, I am overwhelmed by the beauty and privileges of the life she afforded me. I look at my incredibly inspirational and independent Familia in awe of my grandmother’s willful tenacity and the power of her matriarch. On January 14th 2021, we buried my grandma with the first photo.”

Colgate Avenue, Soundview, The Bronx, East Sunday 1965. Melvin and his older siblings Peter and Lucy, and with their cousin Raysa. © Nuevayorkinos / Chelsea Ruffini.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

“The highlight of the school year was always going to Awards Night when students would dress up and receive trophies for excelling in various different subjects at the end of school year. Awards Night was special to us because it would be when we would gather to celebrate our end of the school year achievements as a family. My mom would never miss any of our awards nights and would show up extra early to take up the front row of seats to get the best pictures of us collecting our awards.”

St. Anselm School, 685 Tinton Avenue, The Bronx, 1998. Stephanie Alvarado, Angela Piguave, Kayla Alvarado, and Gabriela Alvarado. © Nuevayorkinos / Stephanie Alvarado.

Country of Origin: Ecuador

“This is me. I was turning 16 and having my birthday at home like I usually do because my parents were so strict they would never let me have a party outside of the house. I am Dominican and the double standard between boys and girls is real. My brother's 16th birthday was very different. That said, much like most of my birthdays I had my one best friend who could always sleep over the house, Jenny over to celebrate with a traditional Dominican cake, probably filled with guava - which is a must for every birthday party. I was also really hyped to be in this Gucci bucket hat very much feeling myself! Before cutting this cake me and my friend Jenny, in matching Jordans, went to Burger King a few blocks from the house and came back to this treat and mami ready to sing. A few other observations - we always had and still have nuts to crack in the kitchen, often some fruit to cut, my mom's sunflower towel hand sewn by la comadre in the back, and platanos stage right - cause duh! Despite my teen angst making me bitter that I wasn't outside doing something wild, I was happy, my eyebrows overplucked, hair done, bucket low and all.”

Kingsbridge, The Bronx, 2002. Amaris on her 16th birthday. © Nuevayorkinos / Amaris Modesto.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic

“In the 1980s, a group of young Puerto Ricans called The East Bronx Breakers were one of the most dangerous B-Boy crews in New York City, residing in the Castle Hill section of The Bronx. They were the next generation of B-Boy crews, ages 11-16. As one of the youngest crews, ‘EBB’ was recognized for bringing the more athletic ‘power moves’ to the now-famous street dance. ‘EBB’ took a no-nonsense approach and battled all the top dance crews of their time. With their style and energetic routines, they dominated their opponents. One of their most famous battles was The win on Nov 21, 1984, against the now world-famous Rock Steady Crew. The dedication and continued work on their kraft made them one of the best B-boy crews in Hip Hop at the time. This photo is a rare image of the Obscure B-boy crew; unfortunately, ‘EBB’ lost most of its documented history to share their story. The most remarkable story that was never told.”

Stevenson HS., 1984. From top left to right: Snap, Flipster, Roland, G-Rock, Crackle, manager CC LaRock. Bottom: Lil Top, Kid Finesse, MightyMax. © Nuevayorkinos / Maximino Perez.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico

“My name is Onasis Cirineo I'm the youngest of four, and I am a first-generation American. My family came in search of the American Dream in the 1980s. My mom was a beautician, and my dad hustled the corners (apparently it was the thing to do in the 80s), got pretty good at it too that's a story for another time tho. When they first got here my mom worked in El Barrio on 2nd Ave in Spanish Harlem it wasn't long before she had a place she could call her own. Through saving, being a part of a susu, and in partnership with her close friend Xiomara, they were able to buy their own salon. On 165th in between Morris and Grand Ave, It's one of the things she's most proud of, she did it all by herself without my Dad and all the money he was making. My mom is the type who never needed any man or anybody she always found a way to make due. When the game finally caught up to my dad they took everything even her Salon the one she had fought tooth and nail over. Single Mom 4 kids not a lick of English and she made a way out of that...could you imagine? Yeah me neither.....shes my hero. In those years of compact struggle pain and trauma, there was also happiness that's what I wanted to highlight in these pictures.”

IMAGE 1:

165th in between Morris and Grand Avenues, c. 1991. Princess. Gianna Karina Cirineo Cruz. © Nuevayorkinos / Onasis Cirineo.

IMAGE 2:

165th between Morris and Grand Avenues, c. 1990. Birthdays at the Salon. L to R: Elvis Sepulveda, Venecia Sepulveda, Nicholas Cirineo. © Nuevayorkinos / Onasis Cirineo.

IMAGE 3:

3rd Ave 149 Street and Grand Concourse, c. 1990. Choose your Fighter! Nicholas Cirineo. © Nuevayorkinos / Onasis Cirineo.

IMAGE 4:

Belmont Park, 182nd and Belmont Street, c. 1990. Park Sitting. Nicholas Cirineo. © Nuevayorkinos / Onasis Cirineo.

IMAGE 5:

142nd Street and Belmont Street, The Bronx, c. 1993. Snow Day. Elvis Sepulveda (baby) Venecia Sepulveda, "Iguana". © Nuevayorkinos / Onasis Cirineo.

IMAGES 6-9:

The Bronx, 1990s. Verano en la Pompa. Milta Blanco, Vencia Sepulveda , Darwin Cirineo. © Nuevayorkinos / Onasis Cirineo.

Country of Origin: Dominican Republic & Venezuela

IMAGE 1:

3850 Park Avenue, The Bronx, c. 1958. Arturo and Paz' seven children Awilda, Doris, Jeanette, Judith, Nilda, Mindy and Ida in their new bathing suits. © Nuevayorkinos / Ivan Waldo Feliciano.

IMAGE 2:

“The family would settle down in the Claremont section of the Bronx. Arturo became disenchanted by the harsh realities and broken promises of Operation Bootstrap as well as by the limited employment opportunities and racism that he encountered due to his mocha colored skin and heavy accent, so he focused his attention on rearing his family.”

Crotona Park, c. 1955. Arturo with daughters Jeanette age 4 and Judith age 3. © Nuevayorkinos / Ivan Waldo Feliciano.

IMAGE 3:

3850 Park Avenue, c. 1955. Arturo Jr age 9 and Jeanette age 4 in front of the building the family settled into. © Nuevayorkinos / Ivan Waldo Feliciano.

IMAGE 4:

“Many of Eduardo's children would eventually migrate to New York City, many settling down in the Bronx. For Mother's Day 1958, the sent for their mother Francisca to join them in New York City. It was her first time flying on a plane. She enjoyed the experience so much that she didn't want to return home. Then, winter came and she was on the first flight back to Isabela.”

Tiffany Ave and 167th Street, The Bronx, 1950s. © Nuevayorkinos / Ivan Waldo Feliciano.

IMAGE 5:

“Arturo and Paz hosted family members that migrated from Puerto Rico as they sought employment and housing in New York City. With nine growing children of their own, the apartment was often cramped and the family would often seek space on the fire escapes and rooftop.”

3850 Park Ave rooftop, c. 1960. © Nuevayorkinos / Ivan Waldo Feliciano.

Country of Origin: Puerto Rico