State lawmakers introduce legislation to mark Dominican Independence Day
Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz January 9, 2026 | 2:12 PM
HARRISBURG, Jan. 9 – To celebrate the contributions of Pennsylvania’s Dominican community, state Reps. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and Manuel Guzman, both D-Berks, and Danilo Burgos, D-Phila. -- all of whom are of Dominican ancestry -- have introduced legislation to designate Feb. 27, 2026, as “Dominican Republic Independence Day.”
The legislation, H.R. 387, seeks to honor the impact Dominicans have made as leaders around the world, including in the United States and the Dominican Republic. The date marks the 182nd anniversary of the Dominican Republic’s independence, following centuries of Spanish colonial rule and 22 years of Haitian governance.
“As the proud daughter of Dominican immigrants, I have seen firsthand the sacrifices, resilience and determination that helped my parents -- and so many Dominicans across our commonwealth and beyond -- build better lives,” said Cepeda-Freytiz, chair of the PA Legislative Latino Caucus. “Dominican Independence Day honors a legacy rooted in freedom, self-determination and democratic values -- principles that continue to guide our commonwealth today. It is an honor to lead this effort to recognize the Dominican community’s enduring contributions to civic life, public service and the cultural strength of Pennsylvania.”
“In 2018, I became the first Dominican elected to serve in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. All these years later, it remains an honor to stand in the Pennsylvania Capitol and uplift Dominican culture -- now alongside my fellow Dominican colleagues,” said Burgos. “This resolution honors the thousands of hardworking Dominicans in Pennsylvania who make this state such an incredible place to live.”
“Growing up Dominican American, I’ve seen the strength, resilience and determination our community brings to Pennsylvania every day,” Guzman said. “From small businesses to public service, Dominicans help drive our neighborhoods and strengthen our commonwealth. Recognizing Dominican Republic Independence Day honors our history, celebrates our contributions and sends a clear message that our community is visible and valued.”
The Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus will also host a celebration for Dominican Republic Independence Day at 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 2 in the Main Rotunda of the state Capitol.