Our Study

       Our class studied the Dominican community in New York City. The Dominican Republic is the leading source of immigrants in New York City today. Many people are unaware of this fact and this group is often forgotten about and understudied. They are currently 13% of New York City's foreign born population. Their first and second generation consists of 600,000 individuals. Out of all the children in NYC under the age of 18, 65% of them are second generation children. It is important to study this second generation because they will have a big impact on the future of the city. 

       The Dominican first generation is one of the most disadvantaged groups in New York City. The Census shows that they are most likely to use public assistance, have high unemployment rates, receive the lowest median earnings, and have the lowest household incomes. Their children grow up with these disadvantages, yet many are overcoming them and incorporating into society. 

       Our class focused on specific institutions which aid incorporation. Incorporation can come from cultural organizations, high schools, universities, places of worship, political organizations, and professional organizations. Through research and interviews we examined how these institutions attempt to help incorporate the first generation and their children.  

--Rachel Rosenthal

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