Performers look on before the start of the annual Dominican Day parade August 9, 2009 in New York City. The annual parade draws hundreds of thousands of supporters from the Dominican Republic community who now number around 600,000 in New York City.

Supporters gather at the start of the annual Dominican Day parade August 9, 2009 in New York City. The annual parade draws hundreds of thousands of supporters from the Dominican Republic community who now number around 600,000 in New York City.

Performers look on before the start of the annual Dominican Day parade August 9, 2009 in New York City. The annual parade draws hundreds of thousands of supporters from the Dominican Republic community who now number around 600,000 in New York City.