New York.– The iconic Empire State Building was illuminated this Sunday night with the blue, white, and red colors of the Dominican Republic’s flag, as part of the celebrations for the Dominican Day Parade in Manhattan, bringing Dominican pride to one of the most recognized landmarks in New York City.
Businessman and content creator Santiago Matías “Alofoke” took part in the traditional skyscraper lighting, an event that gains special relevance as it took place in the midst of a day in which thousands of Dominicans took to the streets of Manhattan to celebrate their identity, culture, and roots.
Matías’ participation came after receiving an invitation to be part of this symbolic ceremony. The Empire State Building itself subsequently highlighted the lighting through its social media channels and linked the post to Alofoke, emphasizing his presence at the event.
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Days earlier, Matías had expressed his satisfaction with the distinction and the significance of being able to participate in the lighting of one of the most famous buildings in the world with the colors of the national flag.
The moment crowned a day of great Dominican effervescence in New York, where the celebration of the Dominican Parade brought together thousands of people and also featured the presence of community figures, artists, communicators, and representatives from different sectors.
The presence of Santiago Matías during the activities generated great enthusiasm among part of the public that participated in the celebration, also reflecting the prominence that the businessman and communicator has reached among the Dominican diaspora in the United States.
Built between 1930 and 1931, the Empire State Building constitutes one of the main symbols of New York. Its lighting system is used to commemorate historical events, cultural celebrations, social causes, and dates of international relevance.
This Sunday, its lights held a special meaning for Dominicans: blue, red, and white shone over Manhattan as an expression of identity and pride for a community that keeps its roots strong and has a significant presence in New York City.
The image of the Empire State Building dressed in the colors of the flag provided a symbolic closing to a day in which Dominican pride was felt on the streets of Manhattan and ended up shining from the very top of one of the most famous buildings in the world.




