Port of Spain, August 21, 2023 – The Ministry of Tourism Culture and the Arts, in collaboration with Tourism Trinidad is happy to have participated in the renaming of a central street in Queens, New York to “Trinidad and Tobago Street”. The event took place on Sunday 20th, August 20, 2023, and marked a significant milestone in celebrating the enduring cultural ties between our country and the vibrant community in the borough of Queens, which is home to a large Caribbean population.

The street is located at the intersection of 131st Street and Liberty Avenue, an iconic crossroads that will now carry the name of “Trinidad and Tobago Street.” This recognition is a testament to the indelible mark which the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora has made on the social, economic, and cultural landscapes of Queens. This milestone also demonstrates the value of our diaspora in the development of the borough, which is world-renowned as one of the most linguistically diverse communities in the United States. In 2017, the Guinness Book of World Records dubbed Queens, NY “the most ethnically diverse area on the planet”.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Senator the Honourable Randall Mitchell noted that, “looking at the unveiling of ‘Trinidad and Tobago Street’ in the heart of Queens, we witnessed the fusion of cultures as a testament to the lasting bonds that connect our nation with the vibrant communities abroad. This street stands not only as a physical landmark but as a beacon of unity, reflecting the shared heritage and enduring friendship between Trinidad and Tobago and our global diaspora.”

Tourism Trinidad CEO Carla Cupid remarked that, “we are truly excited to commemorate the deep-rooted connection between our nation and the Queens community through this street naming ceremony.” She continued, “this event symbolizes the unity of cultures and the invaluable contributions of our diaspora to the social fabric of this great city. ‘Trinidad and Tobago Street’ will stand as a bridge that connects our nations, and we are proud to witness this momentous occasion.”

According to Trinidad and Tobago’s Consul General to New York, Andre Laveau: “This is as powerful a compliment, as one can imagine, to the contribution of Trinidad and Tobago nationals to community life in Queens.  The Consulate General is truly thankful that the values, lifestyle, and hard work that our people bring to New York are being so graciously recognized by our friends.”

The ceremony was a grand celebration of heritage and diversity, with live performances featuring our rich musical traditions, vibrant dance performances, and an array of delectable culinary delights that showcase the unique flavours of the islands.

This landmark event is also an integral aspect of a celebratory season for the Trinidad and Tobago Diaspora in the US, which began with World Steelpan Day on August 11, and continues with Independence Celebrations in the last week of August, West Indian American Day Celebrations on Labor Day Weekend, and Republic Day Celebrations in the last week of September.

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