History

Rochester, NY – Throughout the 1940’s, 50’s and 60’s Rochester was an area blossoming with the growth of its Puerto Rican population. The 60’s were a time of great prosperity and hope for Puerto Ricans. It was during the end of this decade when organizations such as IBERO, PRYD, Spanish Action Coalition and many others were established. There was an electric atmosphere, but still a sense of lacking for Puerto Ricans. It was in 1970 when individuals came together to create the first Puerto Rican Parade, modeled after the first parade in NYC in 1957, founded by Chuito Caballero. It was a spectacular showing, with dancers, marching bands and floats. It was and always has been a venue to present and educate the greater community regarding the wonderful traditions of Puerto Rico.

There was a time when the parade was at a standstill and was recently resurrected within the last 2-3 years by the Spanish Action Coalition. It has been held most recently on Clinton Ave, an area with the largest concentration of Latinos. Although, it has been extremely important to revive, to date it has yet to reach its full potential. Through the efforts of the Spanish Action Coalition and its mission to reinvigorate the Parade, it will return to its home in downtown Rochester for all to experience and will be a reflection of its once exceptional presentation with the return of traditional floats, dancers, and variety of participants. Its once prestigious and esteemed reputation will be restored for all and importantly for future generations to appreciate and understand their cultural heritage.