Nestled in Jackson Heights, Queens, lies a vibrant enclave known as Little Colombia, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Colombian American community in New York City. Spanning Roosevelt Avenue from 79th to 84th Streets, this neighborhood was shaped by successive waves of Colombian immigrants in search of a better life. Today, Little Colombia stands as a living tribute to their resilience and cultural heritage, creating a small but thriving piece of Colombia in the heart of New York.
The birth of Little Colombia in New York
The first wave of Colombian immigrants arrived in Jackson Heights in the aftermath of World War I, drawn by the suburb-like atmosphere and the promise of new opportunities. Initially, professionals and students settled in the area, contributing to the neighborhood’s early development. However, the real surge came during the 1960s, when a recession in Colombia prompted many more to leave their homeland in search of stability. This influx continued in the 1980s, driven by the turmoil of the drug war and social unrest back home.
Over the decades, Jackson Heights transformed into a stronghold for Colombian culture. Immigrants opened businesses, established cultural organizations, and wove their traditions into the fabric of the community. By the 1970s, Jackson Heights had firmly established itself as a key destination for Colombians in New York, eventually giving rise to the moniker “Little Colombia.”
The Arepa Lady
One of the most iconic figures in this community is Maria Cano, affectionately known as the “Arepa Lady.” After moving from Medellin, Colombia, to Jackson Heights in 1984, Maria began selling traditional Colombian corn cakes, known as arepas, from a cart in the subway station of the 7 train. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to preserving Colombian culinary traditions quickly made her a beloved figure in the neighborhood. Today, her legacy continues through her sons, who run a brick-and-mortar restaurant on 37th Avenue, serving as a gathering place for Colombian expats to reconnect with their roots.
An evolving community
Despite the strong sense of community, the Colombian population in Jackson Heights has faced challenges in recent years. Rising living costs have pushed many to relocate to more affordable areas in the suburbs and even out of state, particularly to Pennsylvania. By the 2010 census, only about 94,000 Colombians were recorded as living in New York City, reflecting a decline in the local population.
Nevertheless, organizations like the Centro Civico Colombiano have worked tirelessly to preserve Colombian traditions and pass them on to the next generation. Founded in the 1970s by a group of 16 individuals, the center offers a range of cultural activities, including ESL classes, folklore dancing, and guitar lessons for young people. These efforts ensure that Colombian heritage remains alive and vibrant in Jackson Heights.
The influence of the Colombian community in Jackson Heights extends beyond cultural preservation. In recent years, Colombians have gained political representation, with Catalina Cruz making history as the first Dreamer and Colombian-born politician elected to the New York State Assembly. Cruz’s election underscores the growing importance of the Colombian-American community in shaping local policies and advocating for their interests.
While the community continues to evolve, Colombian culture—evident in the food, music, and traditions—continues to thrive in the heart of Jackson Heights. “The Roosevelt area belongs to the Colombians. We’ve taken over this street,” concludes a street seller, laughing.
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