Spanish Harlem (aka “El Barrio”) located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan is a neighborhood many Puerto Ricans can call home. According, to nyc.gov census data the East Harlem’s population was at 123,579 with 50% being Hispanics. While the area has suffered through many social issues such as unemployment the culture and spirit have remained unscathed. “I moved here during college and its had its ups and downs but I love it, besides you cant beat the food here” said Rey Makloskey 33, long time resident.
Spanish Harlem has a rich history dating all the back to the first World War, which saw its first surge of Puerto Rican immigrants to arrive. El Museo has been a staple in Spanish Harlem and played an integral part in retaining that Latino history. Many exhibitions inform and counter stereotypical depictions of Latinos. Santiago’s ” A Universe of Fragile Mirrors” focuses on indigenous cosmologies of Puerto Rico/Hati that challenge the boundaries between documentary and fiction.
Its no secret that you can find some of the best Puerto Rican cuisine in Spanish Harlem. La Fonda, opened in 1996 when Puerto Rican born Jorge Ayala acquired the property and transformed it into the local hot-spot it is today.
Ayala, has been in Spanish Harlem for two decades and has seen many things change including the gentrification that has occurred over the years. “25 years ago a lot of these people wouldn’t have dared to come to Harlem,” He also shares he thoughts on the ongoing Puerto Rican debt crisis.
Murals on the streets of Spanish Harlem showcase Puerto Rico’s family and heritage two integral parts of its spirit.
Spanish Harlem is an area that embraces its history, food and art. While thing have changed (perhaps for the better) the roots of family and heritage remain the same.