Little Santo Domingo, a lively cultural centre in the historic Allapattah neighborhood, is fighting for survival against the unrelenting stream of overdevelopment.
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| Allapattah neighborhood, Miami, Florida, USA |
Nestled in the bustling center of Miami-Dade County, Florida, is Little Santo Domingo - a cultural gem that beats with the unwavering determination of immigrant business owners. The Allapattah neighborhood, steeped in history, is currently facing a significant challenge. The area's commercial corridor is under threat from real estate speculation, which has led to soaring rents and the constant demolition of its aging structures. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has included this landmark on its list of America's 11 "endangered" historic sites.
Over the years, Little Santo Domingo has experienced a diverse range of changes, creating a rich tapestry of history. The history of the city of Miami is a rich tapestry of cultural influences. Beginning with its Seminole roots and the arrival of white settlers, the city has undergone significant changes over the years. The African-American community, which once thrived in the Overtown neighborhood, was displaced by the construction of Interstate 95. In more recent times, Miami has seen a massive influx of Cuban and Caribbean immigrants following the Cuban Revolution. These diverse cultural influences have helped shape Miami into the vibrant and dynamic city it is today. During the 1980s, the Dominican community revitalized the neighborhood and gave it the name "Little Santo Domingo."
Little Santo Domingo is a bustling hub of activity where renowned Dominican baseball players get their haircut by skilled barbers and Caribbean reggaeton artists have custom-made outfits tailored by expert tailors. This vibrant scene is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic flair of the community. A land of opportunities, crafted by courageous immigrants who established their own enterprises. The surging rents in Allapattah have compelled numerous residents to vacate their homes, leading to the closure of several businesses. Individuals who continue to resist are confronted with the persistent danger of being displaced or having their storefronts demolished on a daily basis.
The Allapattah Collaborative organizes a dedicated group of residents who are working around the clock to preserve and promote their area. Its principal goal is to help small companies succeed by facilitating them access to education, resources, and capital. The Thrive in Place Fund was recently established as a way to buy up commercial real estate in the area and keep prices down for the foreseeable future.
The director of the Allapattah Collaborative, Mileyka Burgos-Flores, told Axios Miami that Little Santo Domingo represents the American ideal and enterprise. It's a spot where refugees settled down and established their own companies. As the last frontier of immigrant hard labor and enterprise, Burgos-Flores argues that Little Santo Domingo is one of the last chances in the country to maintain this story.
A community-driven master plan is also being crafted by the group, with the goal of striking a balance between growth and preservation. Their mission is to preserve Little Santo Domingo's history and culture for future generations to enjoy and to keep housing costs low in this vibrant community.
There's more to Little Santo Domingo than merely a neighborhood. It is a priceless piece of history that represents the aspirations of immigrants and the pioneering spirit of the United States. Fight for its preservation means fighting to keep a community's history and character intact, not only its structures. The perseverance of the Allapattah Collaborative and the community's cooperation during difficult times is an inspiration.
Source: Opy Morales/Infobae