Celebrating Dominican Independence with historian Jose C. Novas On February 26, 2016, DAMA held its annual celebration of Dominican Independence Day, with a keynote presentation by historian and writer José C. Novas. He spoke on the life of Juan Pablo Duarte, highlighting the young patrician’s significance in and impact on the foundation of the Republic.
Professor Novas noted several important facts about the vicissitudes the Dominican Republic faced in preserving its newly gained independence and sovereignty. Unbeknownst to Dominicans in Illinois, he mentioned the very important roles that Illinois’ US Representative William E. Masson and Senator Joseph M. McCormick played in securing the departure of US troops from Dominican soil, which had remained in the country from 1916 through 1924.
A general introduction by DAMA’s Chair Dr. Rafael Nuñez-Cedeño and remarks by Dr. Gisselle Castillo-Veremis, Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Chicago, preceded Professor Novas’ talk. DAMA thanks the sponsors, the performers, and the general public. Thanks to all of them, the evening was a veritable success.