Books That Matter: Jonathan De Oleo Ramos's Donation Celebrates Afro-Dominican Heritage

From left to right: Professor Sarah Aponte, Jonathan De Oleo Ramos, and Librarian Jhensen Ortiz, May 17, 2024

CUNY Dominican Studies Institute (CUNY DSI) Library is delighted to announce a generous book donation from our second threatened scholar, Jonathan De Oleo Ramos, who will join us as a resident in the summer of 2024. Jonathan, a distinguished social scientist, educator, cultural activist, and researcher, focuses on social justice and Afro-Dominican culture in the Dominican Republic. His donation includes a copy of his most recent publication, "Cofradías Dominicanas del Espíritu Santo," which explores the rich traditions of Dominican brotherhoods dedicated to the Holy Spirit. This work is a profound addition to our understanding of religious and cultural practices in the Dominican Republic.

The Donated Books

Jonathan's donation includes a rich array of works that provide valuable insights into Afro-Dominican culture and history:

1. Boletín Museo del Hombre Dominicano, Boletín 30 año XXVIII-Núm. 30-2001.
2. Boletín Museo del Hombre Dominicano, Boletín 32 año XXIX-Núm. 32-2002.
3. León de la Barra, Pablo.Yaguate año 1. núm. 1-2023.
4. León de la Barra, Pablo.Yaguate año 1. núm. 2-2023.
5. Centro Cultural Banreservas, Reservas arte y cultura edición 4. Julio de 2023.
6. De Oleo Ramos, Jonathan. Cofradías Dominicanas del Espíritu Santo. Platón Ediciones, 2023.
7. Tavarez María, Clenis. Anamuya: Patrimonio aborigen del este de República Dominicana. Instituto Panamericano de geografia e historia seccion nacional de dominicana, 2023.
8. Ministerio de cultura, etc. Guía de los primeros ingenios de américa. Ministerio de cultura, 2024.
9. Rosario, Reina. Raíces de la identidad dominicana. Ediciones CP, 2016.
10. Rosenberg, June C. El Gagá: religión y sociedad de un culto dominicano: un estudio comparativo. Comisión Nacional Dominicana, 2021.
11. Ávila Suero, Víctor. Comisarios, toros y peregrinos hacia los santuarios del este. Instituto Panamericano de geografía e historia sección nacional de dominicana, 2014.
12. Santana, Josué and Edis Sánchez. La música folclórica dominicana. Instituto Panamericano de geografía e historia sección nacional de dominicana, 2022.

Jonathan De Oleo Ramos holding a copy of his book Cofradías Dominicanas del Espíritu Santo, May 17, 2024

Upcoming Course on Afro-Dominican Culture

In addition to his literary contributions, Jonathan will co-teach a pioneering undergraduate course titled "El Gagá: An Exploration of Afro-Dominican Culture" from June 3 to 28 at The City College of New York. This hybrid class offers a unique opportunity to learn about vibrant Afro-Dominican cultural and religious practices. To learn more click here.

Welcoming Jonathan De Oleo Ramos

We are honored to welcome Jonathan to CUNY DSI and are grateful for his generous donation. These books will serve as valuable resources for students, researchers, and anyone interested in studying and understanding the rich and complex heritage of the Dominican Republic, particularly its Afro-Dominican communities. Jonathan's residency and contributions will undoubtedly enrich our community and further our mission to promote understanding of Dominican heritage.

Stay tuned for more information on our resources and exciting donations for the remainder of the year.

By Jhensen Ortiz, Librarian