SANTO DOMINGO. - Although most of New York’s growing Dominican community doesn’t think it will return to its country, only 68% wants their children consider themselves as Americans, which for U.S. conservatives is a “paradox,” according to a study disclosed Thursday in Santo Domingo.
“We are faced with a complexity “on the profile of the Dominican community in the United States, said the sociologist Ramona Hernandez, who lead the "Study on the daily life of the Dominican population in Manhattan and the Bronx."
Hernandez, of the City University of New York (CUNY), said in the last decades the community established its roots in the United States, but "with the mind in Dominican Republic.";
While 87.8% of the people interviewed affirmed that they wanted their children to consider themselves Dominican, only 68% hope their offspring see themselves as Americans, although more than 90% motivate them to be bilingual.
Hernandez said for the American conservative sector it’s a paradox because most of the Dominican community resides legally, 42% are born in the United States and the number of naturalizations increases every year.
The random phone survey was conducted in Manhattan and Bronx, which group nearly 50% of the Dominican community, and polled 636 heads of family, with a margin of error of 5 percentage points, said the researcher Pedro Ortega.
The last United States census showed that of the 1,468,542 total Dominicans, 739,104 live in New York.
Written by: riosm, 3 Dec 2010 3:47 PM
From: United States
EL_Platano,
"Visa fraud"......over extended visa's.
Written by: telemeco, 3 Dec 2010 4:11 PM
From: Dominican Republic, Monte Plata
El Domincano Ama su patria. con corruptos, ladrones y atracadores. con su vecino, los amigo, familia y libertad que no se encuentra en los USA. donde todos esto valores no le dan honores.
Que viva la republica, Tierra de contradisiones pero querida
Written by: Gringo_1, 3 Dec 2010 4:35 PM
From: Dominican Republic, Maimon (Bonao)
But, 100% want access to free healthcare, social security and free education. That's the paradox.
Written by: telemeco, 3 Dec 2010 4:38 PM
From: Dominican Republic, Monte Plata
Gringo,,,
you want to pay my 7000 dollar healthcare bill and my 22500 tax i pay to the Goverment
Written by: Gringo_1, 3 Dec 2010 4:42 PM
From: Dominican Republic, Maimon (Bonao)
Read the post again teletubby.
Written by: Belly, 3 Dec 2010 4:53 PM
From: United States, Seattle, W.A.
AnthonyC
No it isn't. We understand completely. It is just typical of the need to excuse their abandonment of their country while embracing the whole entitlement mentality.
Being the Cuban that you are is kind of funny for you to call Dominican out on entitlement mentality when your kind has received the most of all groups from latin america.
As the saying goes "Do not to throw stones if you live in a glass house"
http://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/ssb/v25n3/v25n3p3.pdfWritten by: Atabey, 3 Dec 2010 4:55 PM
From: United States, NYC
"The last United States census showed that of the 1,468,542 total Dominicans, 739,104 live in New York."
If we take the numbers roughly 50% of Dominicans reside in NY. Also, the Dominican Diaspora is a little over 40 years old in its majority, with significant numbers coming over after the historic 1965 Immigration Act. The fact that so many Dominicans feel conflicted towards their child's choice of an only or proposition is not that surprising. Most immigrant parents feel somewhat torn on this issue. I'm not sure if the analyst asked the following:
If given a choice between:
a) Dominican b) American c) Dominican-American
Which one of these would they choose.
I'm sure that the majority would go with "C"
Written by: anthonyC, 3 Dec 2010 4:56 PM
From: United States
Miss. Belly
I have disproved you allegations before so why are you wasting bandwidth?
BTW I don't care about what others do. I care about the right thing. I am an American and I don't mooch.
Written by: Belly, 3 Dec 2010 5:00 PM
From: United States, Seattle, W.A.
AnthonyC
"I have disproved you allegations before so why are you wasting bandwidth?"
Well you are within your rights to disapprove the truth but it doesn't take away the fact. If anybody who is not allowed to blame other for entitlement mentality, Your kind is high on the list NO NO.
Written by: juanb, 3 Dec 2010 5:28 PM
From: Dominican Republic
Are second and third generation Italians living in the US Italian, or are they Americans? Are second and third generation Russians living in the US Russians or Americans?
To consider yourself Dominican is your right. But if your children are born and live in the US they are Americans, of Dominican descent, but Americans none the less. If you don't want that to be the case, COME ON HOME.
Written by: xwill7, 3 Dec 2010 5:29 PM
From: United States, El cuarto bate
Who cares about DominicanYorks? Most are only focused on how they look and material things.
Written by: ElChico, 3 Dec 2010 5:30 PM
From: United States
Interesting. But I can't say i'm suprised since Dominicans are very prideful of their country even by Latino standards. A lot of Dominicans have the mentality that the U.S is just a temporary place and that their one true home will always be D.R. but it doesn't necessarily mean they don't appreciate the U.S. They know where their bread is buttered sort-a-speak...
I don't think this is unique of Dominicans/Dominican-Americans btw. You will find a similar cultural streak with any immigrant group in the U.S.A but a lot of that gradually fades away once more and more generations live here. I see more and more descendants of Dominican immigrants these days that barely speak spanish or have barely been to DR.
Us kids of immigrants or first generations or whatever you want to call us can get confused or feel an identity crisis. I choose to consider myself an American of Dominican descent and I feel pretty comfortable with that.
Written by: ElChico, 3 Dec 2010 5:34 PM
From: United States
That last census stat there about the Domi population in US is that from this recent census or the previous one? I would have thought in the most recent one that the Domi population here in the U.S would be less concentrated in New York now...
From: United States, Brooklyn
It's very typical of immigrants to not want their children or themselves to lose their identity and love of home-country. However, it's only inevitable, and it will happen once the first and second generation come around the corner... I am sure we are not the first immigrant group to feel this way.
From: United States, Brooklyn
It could also be from the lack of mixing with other ethnicity in the most diverse city in the world. The Bronx last time i check it's an extension of the DR!
Written by: ElChico, 3 Dec 2010 5:45 PM
From: United States
lol Carlos, your right a lot of the Bronx these days reminds me of the Wash Heights I grew up in during the late 80's/90's.
Written by: Atabey, 3 Dec 2010 5:46 PM
From: United States, NYC
Juanb,
3rd and 4th generation Irish and Italians call themselves Irish-Americans and Italian-Americans. And I've known many Cuban-Americans who claim the same. It's just a part of the American cultural journey.
X-Man,
How about the 2-3 billion dollars a year poured into DR by the good folks who left DR to find a better life and future prosperity for their families? Even while developing their skill-sets in the USA, many have supported many a fellow relative, friend or entire families back Home in DR. BTW, not ALL Dominicans, Dominican-Americans are Yorks with the intended implication. Que Pasa?
Written by: ElChico, 3 Dec 2010 5:49 PM
From: United States
Atabey well said. My dad has been helping family in DR for years and helped quite a few come here themselves. For every guy on the corner there are a lot of hard working good people but who cares right?
Written by: xwill7, 3 Dec 2010 5:51 PM
From: United States, El cuarto bate
Atabey,
lol, I always try to avoid connecting in NYC because of some of the Dominican characters on the flight to DR... It was a joke but many act like they are god. Show off in DR but live in the ghetto in USA jajaja
On my last NYC flight many talk so loud that the entire plane has to listen to their story.
Written by: ElChico, 3 Dec 2010 5:57 PM
From: United States
xwill7,
not going to lie that does happen but as unfortunately is often the case the obnoxious and loud get noticed more...
Written by: Atabey, 3 Dec 2010 6:09 PM
From: United States, NYC
X-Man,
When you stated that opinion it brought back memories of many misconstrued images; and as ElChico, states: Yes, there are some rather boorish characters but there are many hardworking and sensible people that provide the real substance and character of the Dominican Diaspora.
Written by: xwill7, 3 Dec 2010 6:22 PM
From: United States, El cuarto bate
Like the ones that wear winter boots and heavy baggy pants in the DR heat. lol Trying to look hip-hop, and sunglasses inside of a dark night club
From: United States
I understand having pride in your home country but if you live in America because you want to live the life that being there gives you then you are an American. If the rewards of living there were not having a better life why wouldn't you simply return home? I was born in Santiago and now live part time in New York part in Santiago. I consider myself both a Dominican and and American. Having dual citizenship and being able to live in America has given me a better life with many more options than I would have staying in Santiago. I love the Dominican Republic but I also love American. I speak the official language and use while in the country whenever possible. When I am in Santiago I speak Spanish whenever possible.
Written by: antonio1, 3 Dec 2010 8:51 PM
From: Dominican Republic, Av Santa Rosa, La Romana
Dominicans are only expressing what every other Latin American immigrant are saying; that they don't want their children to loose their Latino identity and in no way suggest a rejection of US citizenship……this sound like a pay survey to show the rest of the US, that immigrants don’t want to be American….sad//
Written by: TheTruth, 3 Dec 2010 9:30 PM
From: United States, Boston
They want to go back just not right now with all the free stuff they get.
And when they need a cabana fix they pop down the 3 hour ride and have at it.
Why is NYC broke ???
When It was just Italian Irish and Jews who were the minority , the city thrived. New York is New York because of the early immigrants who wanted to work . All the Italians wanted to learn english and changed their names to fit in. Not today boy those days are over VIVA Obama!!!!!
Written by: ElFactor, 3 Dec 2010 9:46 PM
From: United States
So it shall be easy to deport these platanos back to D.R. then. If you are born here and you're issued a Birth Certificate, Social Security and a U.S. Passport, you should respect the country, that has opened itself unselfishly towards you. I don't like to talk bad about my Dominican (symbolically) family in general, but this type of attitude is wrong, and impedes the community in moving forward in this society as a whole.
Written by: yumnuk3, 3 Dec 2010 10:31 PM
From: United States, ø„¸¨°º¤ø„¸¸„ø¤º°¨¸„ø¤º°¨
The results cannot be taken seriously, because the survey was completed in an area where most of the new recent arriving immigrants live.
If the survey had been taken in Queens or Long Island. The results would probably show a totally different result.
From: United States
thats how " america" wants it, they throw your native country at your face.... the whites are the natives american, really? the whites are the natives dominicans,really?
Written by: riosm, 3 Dec 2010 10:34 PM
From: United States
WOW ! a can of worms.
It's safe to say......many adults / parents come to America for a better life in the first place.
Did they pole the Dominican Children born in the U.S ? And why not ? Adult / Dominican / Parents have and can get dual Citizenship.
From what I understand many U.S born regardless of what country there parents come from once their Children are Americanized would rather stay / live in the U.S anyway.
America is not a color, race, religion, gender, right, commi left or ethnicity....IT'S A WAY OF LIFE !
Look at the History and meaning of the word........AMERICAN.
At least unlike many from other Country's can leave and return freely.
Written by: hereIam, 3 Dec 2010 10:56 PM
From: Dominican Republic
Speaking as a Puertorican that grew up in the bronx in the late 60's and 70's (when the Bronx was an extension of San Juan). And living in Santo Domingo. I am very proud of my Latino birth. But as someone who served in the U.S. armed forces to defend the way of life that I grew up accustomed to. I am very proud to be American.
I cannot agree more with riosm
America is not a color, race, religion, gender, right, commi left or ethnicity....IT'S A WAY OF LIFE !
I travel all over the world and have never found a place that the people did not wish for a society that is as open and complete as the U.S. Even with all of the racism and division that is part of human nature. Look at the history of the U.S. and you will see that all "new comers" had to overcome the same issues.
Written by: xwill7, 3 Dec 2010 11:35 PM
From: United States, El cuarto bate
Yum is correct. I bet if they survey other areas it will be another story. Many Dominicans where I live have become citizens and the ones born here seem proud.
Written by: synapse, 4 Dec 2010 12:54 AM
From: United States
tank god fo dat
From: Canada
I agree with CarlosFranco. It is natural and normal that immigrant keep a certain pride and attachment to the cultural origin of their parents or even grand-parents. It is important that the kids know about this origin. We live it and see it with our kids being proud and knowledged about their parents' two different countries of origin. However, they are also proud, very socially involved Canadian citizens. The more immigrants live in a "cultural ghetto", the less they and the next generation will feel fully inclusive in the country they have adopted. Unless, of course they are there only for the practicality of it!
Written by: Vivacuba, 4 Dec 2010 4:51 AM
From: Dominican Republic
AMERICANS do not want to be americans anymore! As an american you must leave and return as a foreigner to get your money back from the government that stole it from you. Returning as a cuban is the most profitable. Screw america. They are FINISHED as a constructive society and have nothing to contribute to themselves or the rest of the world except anguish. AVOID USA.
From: United States, I dont even live inside a house , I haunt one!
speaking has a Dominican born in santo domingo , i could relate to this . I use to be one those types that wanted to be identified has Dominican only in my youth, but has the years go bye and you get older you start to come to the realisation that your not in the Dominican republic anymore , you live here and you pay taxes here, the only people that don't want to be Americans are the ignorant dominicans that live in the ghettos of the Bronx , Manhattan , Newark Patterson nj they just wanna suck on the welfare titty. I say deport them all.
Written by: matador, 4 Dec 2010 10:44 AM
From: United States, www.brugal-ron.com/home.php
Si DR no tubiera tantos corruptos, ladrones y atracadores, yo no lo diera por ningun otro pais.
Written by: danny00, 4 Dec 2010 11:50 AM
From: United States, syosset, key west, santo domingo AND NOW THE GLOBE TROTTER
whats wrong in trying to make a new life in other country? myself and my family did it.
we did not give up on the dr. but we had no chance to live a normal live stlye in the dr.
we come to vist and support the dr, but so much is so wrong in the dr.
we have only one life to live and its going to take many years for things to really change in the dr if in fact its ever going to change.
god bless the united states ast least they gave my family a chance to live a real life. as they have done for many people from all over the world.
god bless the dominican republic and all its people.
Written by: Sansouci, 4 Dec 2010 12:29 PM
From: United States
Something I have observed in the dominican diaspora...second generation immigrants marrying a dominican citizen...It's like resetting the timer to zero and the pride for the homeland stays at home.
Written by: Atabey, 4 Dec 2010 1:14 PM
From: United States, NYC
The Truth said:
"Why is NYC broke ???
When It was just Italian Irish and Jews who were the minority , the city thrived. New York is New York because of the early immigrants who wanted to work . All the Italians wanted to learn english and changed their names to fit in."
Funny thing is that the last time NYC was broke, 1975, Dominicans were a tiny percentage of the population of NYC. So what gives? The Irish, Italians, and Jews who controlled NYC created a massive debt structure that killed NYC in the 1970's. The labor Unions and other extortion rackets ran NYC into the ground. The City's revival took place DURING THE MASSIVE WAVES OF NEW IMMIGRANTS in the 1980s-2000. Just some inconvenient Facts. BTW, when the Dodgers and Giants decided to call it quits in NYC, during the 1950s, Dominicans were almost non-existent in NYC! Now, why do you think the top brass in both organizations decided to move out West and leave NYC? Answer: NYC was the past and the West was in play!!
Written by: Atabey, 4 Dec 2010 1:23 PM
From: United States, NYC
The Truth said:
""All the Italians wanted to learn english and changed their names to fit in.""
Well, perhaps you should do yourself a favor and read some real history books. It just might make you reconsider your views on the matter. Italians were discriminated against BIG TIME by the earlier immigrant groups, especially the Irish, Norwegians, and Germans. Just read the Press at the turn of the century, 1900, and you'll get a sense of how Italians were treated and considered by many others: low class immigrants, lacking in physical attributes, in need of changing their eating culture to include more Meat and Potatoes!! instead of all that pasta and sauce and vegetables! The now well regarded Mediterranean Diet. So don't be so quick on the draw and learn a little history before posting your nonsense. BTW, in the South, Italians were considered very close to Blacks because of their Olive skin tone. A number of Italians were lynched; even the Great Football coach Lombardy
Written by: Atabey, 4 Dec 2010 1:25 PM
From: United States, NYC
was discriminated against down South because his Olive skin wasn't considered "White" enough to enter dinning establishments!! His wife was fair skin and had no problems. How's that for some history lesson!
Written by: ny4life, 4 Dec 2010 3:12 PM
From: United States, New York, NY
Dominican parents instill the culture to there kids born in the US via food, culture, language, and visits to DR. A very unique situation. As American born of Dominican descent are very AWARE and CONNNECTED with there Dominican roots.
The DR population in the US starting to establish and develop the third and fourth generation were you typical start to lose connection with your ancestry. However, I hope American born Domnicans follow in our parents footsteps and pass down the culture.
We should continue to have our kids born abroad understand there Dominican roots and be connected to there ancestry. It doesn't mean not being American, which this survey misinterprets, it means recognizing that you are Dominican no matter where you are born.
LIke the DR consitution states, a Dominican born abroad to Dominican parents, is entitled to Dominican citizenship.
Que viva nuestra Republica Dominicana y que viva la cultura Dominicana.
I AM PROUD AND BLESSED TO BE DOMINICAN!
From: Dominican Republic
More enlightening stil for our gullible and naive Yankee counterparts that constantly try to demistify the sense of nationalism of our Caribbean peoples-and as someone who lived part of his childhood, youth, and most part of his adult life Stateside, as a Puerto Rican who now lives in D.R., I reject this sense of assimilation that permeates our Yankee counterparts' minds towards us. Even though history has given me an American passport, I consider myself a Puerto Rican in the diaspora. My nation was invaded in 1898, and to this day is occupied illegally by U.S. imperialism. Our Dominican brothers are no less patriotic for the most part, having obtained independence in 1868. Our nations slowly but surely are waking up from their lethargy, and some day will liberate ourselves from U.S. colonialism, and neocolonialism. :-)
Written by: riosm, 4 Dec 2010 8:32 PM
From: United States
HereIam
Thank you. I also served and I'm also proud of my Latino roots.
VivaCuba
You are funny and a classic example of 100% Cuban propaganda / ideology.
Ever wonder how many of your fellow Cuban Countrymen would leave Cuba to enter the U.S if given the chance ?
I get it now.....Cuba has an illegal alien problem.
Written by: fritz, 4 Dec 2010 8:56 PM
From: Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, Quisqeyia
Well, I can certainly see why so many from other countries now live or wish to live in the States...I for one am disabled, get SSI but had to leave my Country (USA) because I could not live on the money that SSI provides not to mention paying child support. Know where I live now? The DR...And when I need to go to the Hospital here which is often, I have to pay out of pocket..And for those who lived here before, you know this all to well..Its not like the States at all where you can walk into any Hospital and if you don't have money or insurance its okay, they will service and bill you later...The DR? LOL!! What a joke!! your leg could be falling off and they will not attend to you until you show them cash or insurance..SICK!! I totally agree, most foreigners move to the States for a better life. However, once they get to know the system and see how easy it is to milk it, they do!!! Welfare city, SS, Food Stamps, WIC, and it goes on & on!!! That said, thank the USA!!
Written by: fritz, 4 Dec 2010 9:06 PM
From: Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, Quisqeyia
P.S and for those born in the USA you better get your act together!! Your an American period! and should be proud...Also, for those who got their Visa's just remember one thing, in 5 Years after your green card expires should you have one, you will need to take your test...Better get acquainted with the greatest Country in the world or risk being deported...Get this, some Americans can't even answer some of those questions, not an easy test...
BTW, whoever mentioned that this survey should have included Long Island, Queens, etc, 100% correct!!! Just take Freeport for example, its now like little Dominican Republic and so is St Nicholas in Manhattan, big time..But at least the Freeport Dominicans really do appreciate the USA!!
Written by: riosm, 4 Dec 2010 10:54 PM
From: United States
Fritz,
I've lived in the U.S for over 47 years I sometimes feel more American then many American born regardless of what Country their parents came from, in America today many still have no idea what life is like anywhere else and take life in the U.S for granted and only a land of freebe's.
I remember the 60's where "AMERICA, LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT " was the norm, those polled should just leave freely and go live in Cuba or Venezuela.
America is still the greatest Nation on earth.
Written by: Vivacuba, 5 Dec 2010 2:28 AM
From: Dominican Republic
fritz, get over yourself. You are a little too modest. For those that have visa's, think long and hard before you take the test to become a citizen. Once you join the club, there is no getting out or turning back. It's like being a Muslim and then later trying to change. You know what happens to them. Also, consider the 2 year long waiting list at the US Embassy in London for those americans waiting to renounce their citizenship. It's not "ALL" a bowl of cherries. Think carefully.
Written by: fritz, 5 Dec 2010 2:32 AM
From: Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, Quisqeyia
Rio
You ain't kidding...maybe somebody should remind those now USA Dominicans about losing their electric for 5-8 hours a day not to mention not being able to drink the water from the faucet...Very frustrating at times...I happen to own an Inversol (Battery back up) but you still can't run a fridge or any other high powered appliance while using your Inversol...Yes, life changing for me being here hands down...They truly have no idea what they are taking for granted...
God Bless America!! In God We Trust! That said, for those who attend church, please be sure to put in your 10% to our Lord Jesus, Amen!
Written by: riosm, 5 Dec 2010 12:33 PM
From: United States
VivaCuba
Your probably right about the long lines in London.....ever see the lines in the U.S / INS lines ? Talk about a long wait. Ever consider it's all about choice unlike in Cuba where you don't have one. I'm sure once they get a real taste of that good ol Euro crap the lines and waiting in U.S Ambassy will be even longer.
Fritz,
Many of those are too busy benefiting from the U.S Gov. freebe's [ preping for 2012 elections ? ] and to think in the DR they had nothing / nada. Reminds me of....getting it free or earning it.
God bess America, America was founded on Christian values our U.S Constitution is and should always be a reflection of that, The radical 60's is an example of what went wrong with America, we have kicked God out of our Schools and Courts. Just think there will come a day when all will confess with thy tongue that Jesus is Lord.
Ever look into solar / wind generator for back-up ?
Take care Brother and the best of Health to you.
From: United States
Written by: El_Platano, 3 Dec 2010 3:37 PM
From: United States, Yonkers, NY
Most of the Dominicans reside legally? Um, no. DR has the 2nd highest rate of visa fraud of any country in the world.
As an U.S. Immigration employee, I can say you are 100% correct.
Written by: Vivacuba, 6 Dec 2010 9:45 AM
From: Dominican Republic
riosm,
Many would leave their country given the fact the american govt is handing out $10000USD to each one of them. Many americans would also leave america and return again if they too were handed that large sum of fiat $. The problem is, the american slaves are too busy working in america to pay this $ to the new arrivals for the wet foot dry foot policy. Vivacuba.
Written by: Yucahu, 6 Dec 2010 12:16 PM
From: United States, Miami
I got a lotta cousins who are first gen Domo's like me and they don't even speak Spanish properly. IF they have kids the kids won't speak spanish at all and the DR will have lost them from contributing to our Dominicanidad. So yes many want to retain their culture but many more lose it and want nothing to do with it. I've met many Dominican's, or people who are half Dominican-italian, french, german, polish or boricua who might have been to DR once and never been back and just don't care about it.....It hurts but oh well. IF some Dominican's want to be proud of their culture so be it.
Written by: riosm, 6 Dec 2010 1:34 PM
From: United States
VivaCuba,
How much $ is the Cuban Gov. giving you to bad mouth the U.S ?
Oh I get it now.....too much Cuban demonize / propaganda, I see...it's not your fault...I understand, but understand this....many come to the U.S on their own free will, not for the free money as you claim but at a better chance at life which you know nothing about....after all you still live in the DR not your beloved Cuba and are injoying the freedom in the DR you never had in Cuba...why ?
Written by: riosm, 6 Dec 2010 2:04 PM
From: United States
Yucahu,
This is nothing new many American born from parents born in other Country's think the same way.....but in time they will also want to know about their heritege.
Unless your born in Cuba and get a taste of Americana, then you'll miss Cuba and your Family / friends not the Cuban Gov.
VivaCuba is a classic example......from what I understand he's never been to the U.S but knows enough to bad mouth the U.S.
Written by: Vivacuba, 6 Dec 2010 2:59 PM
From: Dominican Republic
Denial. Live in denial.
Written by: riosm, 6 Dec 2010 4:11 PM
From: United States
Vivacuba,
The truth will set you free, but i quess coming from Cuba you would not know the differance anyway.
From what they tell me Cuban Culture, Food, Beaches etc..etc.. is real nice almost like the DR, it's never the people only the Governments. People will always be People no matter where one comes from, thats the Human element.
From what I hear about Cuba with all the shortages one thing that is never in short supply is the prisons / jails for those who are discontent, unemployed, disagree, fustrated, with the system and voiceless too. Now that is truth. I never meet a Cuban willing / wanting to go back freely....I wonder why ? Maybe you can answer that for me !
Sounds like you made a new home in the DR....I hope you enjoy it, at least your getting your first taste of freedom for a change.
Some have it, then lose it and miss it.
While those gain it, but are still to blind to see it and never realize it.
Written by: Vivacuba, 6 Dec 2010 10:01 PM
From: Dominican Republic
riosm, yes sadly you will not experience wonderful cuba because you are an american slave that requires permission of its cancerous government to travel. Soon you will have to show your domestic passport similar to the south africans to pass from one of your dirtbag cities to the next one. Show your papers prisoner!
Written by: riosm, 6 Dec 2010 10:42 PM
From: United States
VivaCuba,
What would make you think I would want to visit your "Cuban prison Island" besides if I wanted to visit Cuba.......when I could get a taste of FREE CUBA I'll just FREELY go to Little Havana in Miami. Truly sad......I can tell you've never been there.
I'll rather have a couple "Dirtbag Cities" then a "Dirtbag Prison Island" [Cuban people not inclued].
Written by: Vivacuba, 7 Dec 2010 1:43 AM
From: Dominican Republic
You live on a landlocked prison island bordering Canada and Southern Mexico far removed from the rest of the world. And back to the topic, ...for those considering acquiring American "citizenship", this equates to modern day slavery that once completed cannot be reversed. Think twice before chasing that blue passport with the "chip" hidden inside it!
Written by: riosm, 7 Dec 2010 1:33 PM
From: United States
VivaCuba
Wow ! you know it all.....I mean all about prisons. As I remember Cuba is far removed from the world......or the world removed its self from cuba.
Blacks in America are no longer slaves for over 100 years.
We do have a half Black / White prez.
What chip ? Please inform us on your Cuban know all and know how about America.
Written by: Vivacuba, 8 Dec 2010 6:39 AM
From: Dominican Republic
Typical. Just like the rest of the 98% "uninformed" americans. They don't "know" because they haven't been "told".
Written by: riosm, 8 Dec 2010 10:27 AM
From: United States
VivaCuba
You are DA MAN......you must drink Dos XX.
Written by: Vivacuba, 8 Dec 2010 10:47 AM
From: Dominican Republic
Yes. Yes. Drink Drink. DRINK :)
Written by: riosm, 8 Dec 2010 3:05 PM
From: United States
VivaCuba
Now now, just don't let it blurr your thinking, vision, reasoning or sense of reality.
Written by: ElChico, 8 Dec 2010 5:08 PM
From: United States
Lol, the chip on the passport is not hidden. There is even a little drawing on the front telling you where it is.
Globalization is a scary animal I know but there is no getting away from it. What are you going to do go in a cave, live on another planet? The only reprieve is knowing unless you are really really young you are probably going to die before the worst of it comes along. I do feel deeply sorry for my future children though.
Written by: riosm, 8 Dec 2010 5:35 PM
From: United States
ElChico,
LOL I think VivaCuba was refering to the hidden secret agent g.p.s type and mixing it with the 1960's re-run spy movies shown in Cuba while drinking Dos-XX beer.
From: United States
As an American with Dominican ancestry.... (aka Dominican-American), I am very proud to call myself an American. As my Dominican parents put it when they migrated to the US BEFORE 1965, it's not about forgetting where they came from... it's where they decided to get ahead. If they thought they could do it in DR, they wouldn't have left... ? Does that make any sense? I hear alot of Dominicans talking about going back for good some day... that usually never happens. They are usally back in the US in no time. GOD BLESS AMERICA!
Written by: riosm, 9 Dec 2010 3:24 PM
From: United States
Jluvsgoldens,
Very well put.....My parents also migrated [by choice] to the U.S in 1963 myself as a small Child. I'm 100% proud dedicated and Americanized and I love my roots.
Just think......both the D.R & the U.S share the same flag colors, both Country's share the same ideas regarding Dios, Patria and Libertad.
The DR's Gov. is molded after the U.S Gov. in many ways.
Why even sometimes when I arrive in Las Americas Airport [Santo Domingo, the first City in las Americas] I get a sense I never really left the U.S, I'm also reminded by the streets named after past American Presidents.
Just goes to show you America is not a Color, Race, Religion, Ethnicity, Gender of Nationality but a way of life where one chooses to exceed not re-seed....only by freedom of choice.
Funny many don't know the word FREEDOM even if it bite'um in the A@%.....one can not hate America and not include Americans.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC.
Written by: airgordo, 19 Dec 2010 12:15 AM
From: Dominican Republic
i wonder why do we have to name streets after the names of JFK, George Washington or UK's Winston Churchill, WHAT does that has to do with DR??? The ONLY president that really deserves an important street is Lincon becasue of the greatness he achieved...all these other things are nothing but BS, probably from US puppet Balaguer.
Written by: riosm, 19 Dec 2010 12:03 PM
From: United States
Airgordo,
With a resects.......
The Constitution of the D.R is in many ways modeled after the U.S Constituion plus we share the same flag colors red, white and blue, and to think the party of Lincon is Republican many Black-Americans freak at the idea, Honest Abe was born in the State of Illinois where ? was a State Senator.
You should check out the true / complete history of George Washington [a man like no other] and the founding fathers of the U.S Constituion.
Written by: airgordo, 20 Dec 2010 3:22 AM
From: Dominican Republic
Many Flags in the world have the same colors, OUR flag got the colors from the Haitian Flag, which got it from the french flag...you might say that 2010 constitution might be copied or however you want to call it from the US Constitution, very well, so WHAT does that has to do the NAMES on the streets that are way WAY older than that...on top of that, what does washington, churchill and JFK HAVE DONE for the DR? even more, if the intention is to honor for some dark reason one of the founding fathers of the USA, why not honor Franklyn or Jefferson??? at least Franklyn invented stuff that we use!
Lincon is universal figure that trully did something big for the human kind, a HUMANIST, that is why i do not dispute to honor him, he deserves it
Another american figure that did something for the DR, Mr. Charles Summer, name one big after him, no that crappy road that has the name now.
In my opinion is stupid to have names of people who did NOTHING for this country or Island...
Written by: airgordo, 20 Dec 2010 3:30 AM
From: Dominican Republic
The Base point is this, The fact that X person is larger than Life IN THE USA, does not have anything to do with DR...we are a DIFFERENT country with our OWN different heroes and circumstances, which by the way have paid BLOOD to the USA in three ocations, we don't want nor need to be americanized...Not even the puerto ricans which are still a colony are fully americanized.
From: United States
To: airgordo,
I agree. Not sure why some of the streets in DR are named after American presidents. But then again... not sure why my elementary school in New York City changed from PS 132 to Juan Pablo Duarte 132.
What does JPDuarte have to do with NYC or the US?
Written by: airgordo, 20 Dec 2010 10:19 PM
From: Dominican Republic
would it be BECAUSE of all the domincans studiyng there??? isn't that OBVIOUS?? now tell me how many americans live in DR for those very important roads be called like that???
Written by: Atabey, 31 Jan 2011 10:40 PM
From: United States, NYC
Italian-Americans Fight Proposal to Scrap Italian Regents Exam
January 31, 2011 7:16amcommentshareprint
The Italian Regents exam could be cut by the state, after German, Hebrew and Latin.
* Story
* Comments
Italian-Americans Outraged by Proposal to Scrap Italian Regents ExamPeople make their way under red, white and green decorations along Mulberry Street in Little Italy, as the street gears up for the annual Feast of San Genaro. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
By Jill Colvin
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MANHATTAN — After the Italian Regents Exam was threatened with extinction this year, Italian-American leaders are urging education officials to scrap the proposed elimination once and for all.
In December, the State Education Department's Board of Regents voted to cut costs in the face of looming budget deficits by eliminating Regents language exams including Comprehensive German, Hebrew and Latin. Italian, Spanish and French exams are still offered this year.
The
Written by: Atabey, 31 Jan 2011 10:41 PM
From: United States, NYC
"People are really upset about it," he said.
He agreed that eliminating the exams would likely result in fewer students studying Italian in high school.
According to the State Education Department, eliminating all but the Spanish and French language exams would have saved about $1.2 million a year. The department's budget has shrunk by about 30 percent since 2008-2009, it has reported.
But Lisa said that if any additional language is eliminated, it should be French, because the Italian community is one of the city's largest and most prominent.
"I don’t know any French day parade taking place in New York City," he said, noting both the San Gennaro and Columbus Day celebrations of Italian pride.
Carlo Sclafani, a professor at Westchester Community College who alerted many to the board's talks, went even further, describing the attempt to cut the exam as "discriminatory" and arguing that every language should receive equal funding.
"This is not right. It’s not fair,
Written by: Atabey, 31 Jan 2011 10:41 PM
From: United States, NYC
The Italian exam was originally on the chopping block, too, but it was retained for the 2010-2011 school year, State Education Department spokesman Jonathan Burman said.
While the exam will once again be offered in June, its fate for the coming year remains unknown — and members of the city’s Italian-American community are rallying to make sure it isn't cut.
An online petition to save the test has collected more than 4,000 signatures to date.
"It’s a slap to the ethnic populations," said James Lisa, president of the Italian American Political Action Committee, of the talk of eliminating the test.
He said that canceling the Regents exam would almost certainly lead schools to cancel Italian classes, depriving kids of the opportunity to learn the language.
Joseph Scelsa, President of the Coalition of Italian American Associations and a retired professor at City College, said the issue has hit a chord with many in the community worried about losing the language.
"Peo
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"Visa fraud"......over extended visa's.
Que viva la republica, Tierra de contradisiones pero querida
you want to pay my 7000 dollar healthcare bill and my 22500 tax i pay to the Goverment
No it isn't. We understand completely. It is just typical of the need to excuse their abandonment of their country while embracing the whole entitlement mentality.
Being the Cuban that you are is kind of funny for you to call Dominican out on entitlement mentality when your kind has received the most of all groups from latin america.
As the saying goes "Do not to throw stones if you live in a glass house"
http://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/ssb/v25n3/v25n3p3.pdf
If we take the numbers roughly 50% of Dominicans reside in NY. Also, the Dominican Diaspora is a little over 40 years old in its majority, with significant numbers coming over after the historic 1965 Immigration Act. The fact that so many Dominicans feel conflicted towards their child's choice of an only or proposition is not that surprising. Most immigrant parents feel somewhat torn on this issue. I'm not sure if the analyst asked the following:
If given a choice between:
a) Dominican b) American c) Dominican-American
Which one of these would they choose.
I'm sure that the majority would go with "C"
I have disproved you allegations before so why are you wasting bandwidth?
BTW I don't care about what others do. I care about the right thing. I am an American and I don't mooch.
"I have disproved you allegations before so why are you wasting bandwidth?"
Well you are within your rights to disapprove the truth but it doesn't take away the fact. If anybody who is not allowed to blame other for entitlement mentality, Your kind is high on the list NO NO.
To consider yourself Dominican is your right. But if your children are born and live in the US they are Americans, of Dominican descent, but Americans none the less. If you don't want that to be the case, COME ON HOME.
I don't think this is unique of Dominicans/Dominican-Americans btw. You will find a similar cultural streak with any immigrant group in the U.S.A but a lot of that gradually fades away once more and more generations live here. I see more and more descendants of Dominican immigrants these days that barely speak spanish or have barely been to DR.
Us kids of immigrants or first generations or whatever you want to call us can get confused or feel an identity crisis. I choose to consider myself an American of Dominican descent and I feel pretty comfortable with that.
It's very typical of immigrants to not want their children or themselves to lose their identity and love of home-country. However, it's only inevitable, and it will happen once the first and second generation come around the corner... I am sure we are not the first immigrant group to feel this way.
It could also be from the lack of mixing with other ethnicity in the most diverse city in the world. The Bronx last time i check it's an extension of the DR!
3rd and 4th generation Irish and Italians call themselves Irish-Americans and Italian-Americans. And I've known many Cuban-Americans who claim the same. It's just a part of the American cultural journey.
X-Man,
How about the 2-3 billion dollars a year poured into DR by the good folks who left DR to find a better life and future prosperity for their families? Even while developing their skill-sets in the USA, many have supported many a fellow relative, friend or entire families back Home in DR. BTW, not ALL Dominicans, Dominican-Americans are Yorks with the intended implication. Que Pasa?
lol, I always try to avoid connecting in NYC because of some of the Dominican characters on the flight to DR... It was a joke but many act like they are god. Show off in DR but live in the ghetto in USA jajaja
On my last NYC flight many talk so loud that the entire plane has to listen to their story.
not going to lie that does happen but as unfortunately is often the case the obnoxious and loud get noticed more...
When you stated that opinion it brought back memories of many misconstrued images; and as ElChico, states: Yes, there are some rather boorish characters but there are many hardworking and sensible people that provide the real substance and character of the Dominican Diaspora.
And when they need a cabana fix they pop down the 3 hour ride and have at it.
Why is NYC broke ???
When It was just Italian Irish and Jews who were the minority , the city thrived. New York is New York because of the early immigrants who wanted to work . All the Italians wanted to learn english and changed their names to fit in. Not today boy those days are over VIVA Obama!!!!!
The results cannot be taken seriously, because the survey was completed in an area where most of the new recent arriving immigrants live.
If the survey had been taken in Queens or Long Island. The results would probably show a totally different result.
It's safe to say......many adults / parents come to America for a better life in the first place.
Did they pole the Dominican Children born in the U.S ? And why not ? Adult / Dominican / Parents have and can get dual Citizenship.
From what I understand many U.S born regardless of what country there parents come from once their Children are Americanized would rather stay / live in the U.S anyway.
America is not a color, race, religion, gender, right, commi left or ethnicity....IT'S A WAY OF LIFE !
Look at the History and meaning of the word........AMERICAN.
At least unlike many from other Country's can leave and return freely.
I cannot agree more with riosm
America is not a color, race, religion, gender, right, commi left or ethnicity....IT'S A WAY OF LIFE !
I travel all over the world and have never found a place that the people did not wish for a society that is as open and complete as the U.S. Even with all of the racism and division that is part of human nature. Look at the history of the U.S. and you will see that all "new comers" had to overcome the same issues.
tank god fo dat
we did not give up on the dr. but we had no chance to live a normal live stlye in the dr.
we come to vist and support the dr, but so much is so wrong in the dr.
we have only one life to live and its going to take many years for things to really change in the dr if in fact its ever going to change.
god bless the united states ast least they gave my family a chance to live a real life. as they have done for many people from all over the world.
god bless the dominican republic and all its people.
"Why is NYC broke ???
When It was just Italian Irish and Jews who were the minority , the city thrived. New York is New York because of the early immigrants who wanted to work . All the Italians wanted to learn english and changed their names to fit in."
Funny thing is that the last time NYC was broke, 1975, Dominicans were a tiny percentage of the population of NYC. So what gives? The Irish, Italians, and Jews who controlled NYC created a massive debt structure that killed NYC in the 1970's. The labor Unions and other extortion rackets ran NYC into the ground. The City's revival took place DURING THE MASSIVE WAVES OF NEW IMMIGRANTS in the 1980s-2000. Just some inconvenient Facts. BTW, when the Dodgers and Giants decided to call it quits in NYC, during the 1950s, Dominicans were almost non-existent in NYC! Now, why do you think the top brass in both organizations decided to move out West and leave NYC? Answer: NYC was the past and the West was in play!!
""All the Italians wanted to learn english and changed their names to fit in.""
Well, perhaps you should do yourself a favor and read some real history books. It just might make you reconsider your views on the matter. Italians were discriminated against BIG TIME by the earlier immigrant groups, especially the Irish, Norwegians, and Germans. Just read the Press at the turn of the century, 1900, and you'll get a sense of how Italians were treated and considered by many others: low class immigrants, lacking in physical attributes, in need of changing their eating culture to include more Meat and Potatoes!! instead of all that pasta and sauce and vegetables! The now well regarded Mediterranean Diet. So don't be so quick on the draw and learn a little history before posting your nonsense. BTW, in the South, Italians were considered very close to Blacks because of their Olive skin tone. A number of Italians were lynched; even the Great Football coach Lombardy
The DR population in the US starting to establish and develop the third and fourth generation were you typical start to lose connection with your ancestry. However, I hope American born Domnicans follow in our parents footsteps and pass down the culture.
We should continue to have our kids born abroad understand there Dominican roots and be connected to there ancestry. It doesn't mean not being American, which this survey misinterprets, it means recognizing that you are Dominican no matter where you are born.
LIke the DR consitution states, a Dominican born abroad to Dominican parents, is entitled to Dominican citizenship.
Que viva nuestra Republica Dominicana y que viva la cultura Dominicana.
I AM PROUD AND BLESSED TO BE DOMINICAN!
Thank you. I also served and I'm also proud of my Latino roots.
VivaCuba
You are funny and a classic example of 100% Cuban propaganda / ideology.
Ever wonder how many of your fellow Cuban Countrymen would leave Cuba to enter the U.S if given the chance ?
I get it now.....Cuba has an illegal alien problem.
BTW, whoever mentioned that this survey should have included Long Island, Queens, etc, 100% correct!!! Just take Freeport for example, its now like little Dominican Republic and so is St Nicholas in Manhattan, big time..But at least the Freeport Dominicans really do appreciate the USA!!
I've lived in the U.S for over 47 years I sometimes feel more American then many American born regardless of what Country their parents came from, in America today many still have no idea what life is like anywhere else and take life in the U.S for granted and only a land of freebe's.
I remember the 60's where "AMERICA, LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT " was the norm, those polled should just leave freely and go live in Cuba or Venezuela.
America is still the greatest Nation on earth.
You ain't kidding...maybe somebody should remind those now USA Dominicans about losing their electric for 5-8 hours a day not to mention not being able to drink the water from the faucet...Very frustrating at times...I happen to own an Inversol (Battery back up) but you still can't run a fridge or any other high powered appliance while using your Inversol...Yes, life changing for me being here hands down...They truly have no idea what they are taking for granted...
God Bless America!! In God We Trust! That said, for those who attend church, please be sure to put in your 10% to our Lord Jesus, Amen!
Your probably right about the long lines in London.....ever see the lines in the U.S / INS lines ? Talk about a long wait. Ever consider it's all about choice unlike in Cuba where you don't have one. I'm sure once they get a real taste of that good ol Euro crap the lines and waiting in U.S Ambassy will be even longer.
Fritz,
Many of those are too busy benefiting from the U.S Gov. freebe's [ preping for 2012 elections ? ] and to think in the DR they had nothing / nada. Reminds me of....getting it free or earning it.
God bess America, America was founded on Christian values our U.S Constitution is and should always be a reflection of that, The radical 60's is an example of what went wrong with America, we have kicked God out of our Schools and Courts. Just think there will come a day when all will confess with thy tongue that Jesus is Lord.
Ever look into solar / wind generator for back-up ?
Take care Brother and the best of Health to you.
From: United States, Yonkers, NY
Most of the Dominicans reside legally? Um, no. DR has the 2nd highest rate of visa fraud of any country in the world.
As an U.S. Immigration employee, I can say you are 100% correct.
Many would leave their country given the fact the american govt is handing out $10000USD to each one of them. Many americans would also leave america and return again if they too were handed that large sum of fiat $. The problem is, the american slaves are too busy working in america to pay this $ to the new arrivals for the wet foot dry foot policy. Vivacuba.
How much $ is the Cuban Gov. giving you to bad mouth the U.S ?
Oh I get it now.....too much Cuban demonize / propaganda, I see...it's not your fault...I understand, but understand this....many come to the U.S on their own free will, not for the free money as you claim but at a better chance at life which you know nothing about....after all you still live in the DR not your beloved Cuba and are injoying the freedom in the DR you never had in Cuba...why ?
This is nothing new many American born from parents born in other Country's think the same way.....but in time they will also want to know about their heritege.
Unless your born in Cuba and get a taste of Americana, then you'll miss Cuba and your Family / friends not the Cuban Gov.
VivaCuba is a classic example......from what I understand he's never been to the U.S but knows enough to bad mouth the U.S.
The truth will set you free, but i quess coming from Cuba you would not know the differance anyway.
From what they tell me Cuban Culture, Food, Beaches etc..etc.. is real nice almost like the DR, it's never the people only the Governments. People will always be People no matter where one comes from, thats the Human element.
From what I hear about Cuba with all the shortages one thing that is never in short supply is the prisons / jails for those who are discontent, unemployed, disagree, fustrated, with the system and voiceless too. Now that is truth. I never meet a Cuban willing / wanting to go back freely....I wonder why ? Maybe you can answer that for me !
Sounds like you made a new home in the DR....I hope you enjoy it, at least your getting your first taste of freedom for a change.
Some have it, then lose it and miss it.
While those gain it, but are still to blind to see it and never realize it.
What would make you think I would want to visit your "Cuban prison Island" besides if I wanted to visit Cuba.......when I could get a taste of FREE CUBA I'll just FREELY go to Little Havana in Miami. Truly sad......I can tell you've never been there.
I'll rather have a couple "Dirtbag Cities" then a "Dirtbag Prison Island" [Cuban people not inclued].
Wow ! you know it all.....I mean all about prisons. As I remember Cuba is far removed from the world......or the world removed its self from cuba.
Blacks in America are no longer slaves for over 100 years.
We do have a half Black / White prez.
What chip ? Please inform us on your Cuban know all and know how about America.
You are DA MAN......you must drink Dos XX.
Now now, just don't let it blurr your thinking, vision, reasoning or sense of reality.
Globalization is a scary animal I know but there is no getting away from it. What are you going to do go in a cave, live on another planet? The only reprieve is knowing unless you are really really young you are probably going to die before the worst of it comes along. I do feel deeply sorry for my future children though.
LOL I think VivaCuba was refering to the hidden secret agent g.p.s type and mixing it with the 1960's re-run spy movies shown in Cuba while drinking Dos-XX beer.
Very well put.....My parents also migrated [by choice] to the U.S in 1963 myself as a small Child. I'm 100% proud dedicated and Americanized and I love my roots.
Just think......both the D.R & the U.S share the same flag colors, both Country's share the same ideas regarding Dios, Patria and Libertad.
The DR's Gov. is molded after the U.S Gov. in many ways.
Why even sometimes when I arrive in Las Americas Airport [Santo Domingo, the first City in las Americas] I get a sense I never really left the U.S, I'm also reminded by the streets named after past American Presidents.
Just goes to show you America is not a Color, Race, Religion, Ethnicity, Gender of Nationality but a way of life where one chooses to exceed not re-seed....only by freedom of choice.
Funny many don't know the word FREEDOM even if it bite'um in the A@%.....one can not hate America and not include Americans.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC.
With a resects.......
The Constitution of the D.R is in many ways modeled after the U.S Constituion plus we share the same flag colors red, white and blue, and to think the party of Lincon is Republican many Black-Americans freak at the idea, Honest Abe was born in the State of Illinois where ? was a State Senator.
You should check out the true / complete history of George Washington [a man like no other] and the founding fathers of the U.S Constituion.
Lincon is universal figure that trully did something big for the human kind, a HUMANIST, that is why i do not dispute to honor him, he deserves it
Another american figure that did something for the DR, Mr. Charles Summer, name one big after him, no that crappy road that has the name now.
In my opinion is stupid to have names of people who did NOTHING for this country or Island...
I agree. Not sure why some of the streets in DR are named after American presidents. But then again... not sure why my elementary school in New York City changed from PS 132 to Juan Pablo Duarte 132.
What does JPDuarte have to do with NYC or the US?
January 31, 2011 7:16amcommentshareprint
The Italian Regents exam could be cut by the state, after German, Hebrew and Latin.
* Story
* Comments
Italian-Americans Outraged by Proposal to Scrap Italian Regents ExamPeople make their way under red, white and green decorations along Mulberry Street in Little Italy, as the street gears up for the annual Feast of San Genaro. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
By Jill Colvin
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MANHATTAN — After the Italian Regents Exam was threatened with extinction this year, Italian-American leaders are urging education officials to scrap the proposed elimination once and for all.
In December, the State Education Department's Board of Regents voted to cut costs in the face of looming budget deficits by eliminating Regents language exams including Comprehensive German, Hebrew and Latin. Italian, Spanish and French exams are still offered this year.
The
"People are really upset about it," he said.
He agreed that eliminating the exams would likely result in fewer students studying Italian in high school.
According to the State Education Department, eliminating all but the Spanish and French language exams would have saved about $1.2 million a year. The department's budget has shrunk by about 30 percent since 2008-2009, it has reported.
But Lisa said that if any additional language is eliminated, it should be French, because the Italian community is one of the city's largest and most prominent.
"I don’t know any French day parade taking place in New York City," he said, noting both the San Gennaro and Columbus Day celebrations of Italian pride.
Carlo Sclafani, a professor at Westchester Community College who alerted many to the board's talks, went even further, describing the attempt to cut the exam as "discriminatory" and arguing that every language should receive equal funding.
"This is not right. It’s not fair,
The Italian exam was originally on the chopping block, too, but it was retained for the 2010-2011 school year, State Education Department spokesman Jonathan Burman said.
While the exam will once again be offered in June, its fate for the coming year remains unknown — and members of the city’s Italian-American community are rallying to make sure it isn't cut.
An online petition to save the test has collected more than 4,000 signatures to date.
"It’s a slap to the ethnic populations," said James Lisa, president of the Italian American Political Action Committee, of the talk of eliminating the test.
He said that canceling the Regents exam would almost certainly lead schools to cancel Italian classes, depriving kids of the opportunity to learn the language.
Joseph Scelsa, President of the Coalition of Italian American Associations and a retired professor at City College, said the issue has hit a chord with many in the community worried about losing the language.
"Peo