Hundreds of immigrants from Trinidad and Tobago living in New York welcomed a street renamed after Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday.

The New York City Council had voted unanimously to approve the name change.

And 131 Street in Richmond Hill, Queens became the first street to be named after the twin island Caribbean republic.

Richmond Hill is home to thousands of residents from Trinidad and Tobago and census data show it is among the largest immigrant groups in Queens and in New York City. 

At Sunday’s renaming ceremony, Adrienne Adams, Speaker of the New York City Council, noted that “New York City’s Trinbagonian community has contributed immensely to the cultural and economic landscape of our neighbourhoods.

“I’m proud to represent a vibrant and diverse community in District 28, whose accomplishments and legacies are now officially recognised through the new “Trinidad and Tobago Street” sign.”

“Today’s street co-naming is a significant milestone that celebrates our Trinbagonian families, small businesses, and community organizations that have shaped our city for decades. I am grateful for the partnership of community leaders who helped make this long-sought dream into a reality,” Adams said.

Also addressing the gathering at the ceremony was Andre Laveau, Trinidad and Tobago’s Consul General in New York.

“This is of great significance to Trinidad and Tobago as this is the first ever instance anywhere in the world, of a street being named directly after our country,” he noted.

“This is testimony to the great contribution that our people make and continue to make to life in Queens,” he said.

“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,” he added.

The bill to rename 131 Street was initiated by a committee that included District Leader Richard David, and community leaders of Trinidadian and Tobagonian origin including Vijah Ramjattan, President of the Community Education Council District 28, Anoop Dhanpat, President of the Trinidadian and Tobagonian Association of USA, Rose Deonarine, a radio host, professional emcee and real estate agent, and several businesses, musicians and residents.