<p>People say I need a new intro (first two paragraphs) because it sets up a really bad tone for the rest of the essay, but it’s exactly the way I feel. People think that the opening question is too vulgar and controversial, but it’s an actual question that I get all the time and it is what inspired me to write this whole essay.Should I change my intro? Is the conclusion okay? Is it okay that’s it’s 600 words? I am open to all thoughts and suggestions on anything on this essay. Be harsh, but constructive :)</p>
<p>“Are you a man who’s a dyke because you live in Dyckman?” This cynical question is then followed by derisive laughs of ignorance. People who aren’t residents or Dominican feel obliged to ask this question to make up for their lack of knowledge in New York City geography. I have grown so tired of this question that I stoop down to their level of ignorance and answer laughingly, “yes.”</p>
<p>This neighborhood with a 5-block radius is home to many Dominicans and is often dubbed Dominicantown. Therefore, when people laugh at my neighborhood, it feels like they are laughing at my heritage. When New Yorkers are unaware of my neighborhood, it feels like they are oblivious to Dominicans and what it means to be one. Dyckman has so much more to offer than laughs due to streets named Seaman and Cummings. Walk with me and let me show you:</p>
<p>Broadway. As I emerge from the ancient, rotting train station of the A train from a long day of school, I am reminded of the subtle transformations in Dyckman from other well-known areas in New York City, such as Soho or Greenwich Village. The advertisements on the billboards above the lively bodega go from a spokesperson with blonde hair and blue eyes to this new person with much darker features. The same ads no longer have slogans like “Career Success Starts HERE,” but say “Si Estas Aqui Ilegalmente, Llame A 1-800-IMMIGRATION.” </p>
<p>Vermilyea Avenue. While I pass the graying old men playing dominoes on a similarly aging crate, the Dominican dialect is communicated to express the competitive attitude in winning the game. The scents in the Dyckman Bakery from the flan and tres leches then diffuse out onto the street and hypnotically beckon me. </p>
<p>Sherman Avenue. Crossing the street, I come across the store La Moda, which sells the latest fashions, such as “I Heart DR” shirts, that only appeal to those from Dyckman. The store sells clothes that are similar to the outfits that the bachata group Aventura sport on their music videos. And so I see everyone passing by with these clothes. The music fads follow in the same fashion. Walking down the street, I hear parked cars blasting the new, catchy hit single that resonates with everyone.</p>
<p>Post Avenue. I walk quicker to beat the long lines at Cachapas y Mas. Finally reaching the front of the line, I ask for un palito de queso. Taking the first bite, I detonate the explosion of the gooey cheese, releasing itself from the fried dough.</p>
<p>Nagle Avenue. Almost home, with my palito de queso in my hand, I pass the discordant chattering that comes from La Nacional. Many people in different telephone booths make long distance calls to loved ones in Latin American countries. I reminisce on all the hours I spent there talking to my father who lived in the Dominican Republic before his death.</p>
<p>Despite the harassment I receive because of where I come from, I will never be ashamed. Dyckman has not only taught me the significance of culture and roots, but also the function of a lively community. Although this is where I am from, this is not where I am going. All my life I have been haunted by the statistics that dominate Hispanic youth. Hispanic teenagers are more likely to have one parent in their lives. Hispanic teenagers come from low-income backgrounds. I, however, will not adhere to the statistic that says I will drop out of high school because of the factors above. I have not let my economic background or my absent father limit me from excelling and becoming successful. It has in fact motivated me to not fit into the mold. The ignorance that I face and the statistics of Hispanics shape my aspirations of pursuing success.</p>