I’m from Washington Heights

Where fire hydrants are left opened all summer long so the neighborhood kids can stay cool

Where loud music is the norm no matter the time of day

Where fireworks are lit up every day from late June till early August

Where you’ll be greeted by dozens of street vendors once you get to 181st

Where kids line up for $1 slices after school

I’m from Washington heights

Where there’s a bodega or two on every block you step on

Where patelitos and morirsoñandos are essential after a long day at the pool

Where we love to listen to Tokischa and El Alfa on full blast

where you won’t go a day without hearing police sirens

Where Dominicans reside and flourish

I’m from Washington Heights