By Manuel F Nieves
Texts and photos by Manuel F. Nieves. Some reports and photographs are by other authors, with the collaboration of Manuel F. Nieves or where he is also a protagonist of the story.
«The path is more important than the reason that led me to walk. It is never too late to find my own way. I walk like a pilgrim with my camera, documenting stories, capturing moments that others might overlook. Many can walk beside me, but no one can take this journey in my place. Because every story I capture also transforms me.»
Writing and photography by: Manuel F. Nieves
New York, April 2025
Launch of Ecuadorian Week in New York 2025
The Ecuadorian Civic Committee of New York (ECC-NY) held the official launch event for Ecuadorian Week 2025, as part of the celebrations for Ecuador’s Independence Day, which are commemorated every year in July and August throughout the United States.
During the press conference, held in an atmosphere of fraternity, ECC-NY president Mr. Oswaldo Guzmán announced that registration for the Committee’s Queen Pageant is now open. The selection event will take place on July 26, and interested candidates can register at the Committee’s headquarters, located at 96-09 Roosevelt Ave, 2nd Floor, Corona, NY 11368.
It was also confirmed that the traditional Grand Ecuadorian Parade on Northern Boulevard will be held on Sunday, August 10, bringing together various Ecuadorian diaspora organizations in the United States.
In his speech, Mr. Guzmán highlighted the humanitarian work of the Civic Committee, especially in partnership with the organization Vista para Todos Foundation, through which free medical services and wheelchairs are provided to vulnerable Ecuadorian communities.
He emphasized that these efforts have been carried out “without any government support, only with the dedication, love, and social commitment of Ecuadorian diaspora volunteers.” The event also included a recognition ceremony for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the community.
Among those honored were Detective Luis Jaime of the NYPD, gesture interpreter Javier Flores, who was named Guest of Honor, and Dario Flores, an active collaborator of the ECC-NY.
The contribution of the press and media covering civic events in the community was also recognized, including Carlos Chahuín, Víctor Lagos, and Manuel F. Nieves—this last one being the photojournalist who covered the event.
The event concluded with a tasting of traditional Ecuadorian dishes, in which attendees shared food and sweet treats, reinforcing the cultural identity of Ecuadorian residents in New York.
The Ecuadorian Civic Committee of New York thus reaffirms its commitment to preserving traditions, promoting community integration and solidarity, and supporting the most vulnerable sectors of Ecuador.
APRIL 2025
Francisco Moya Celebrates Historic NYCFC Donation to Queens
By Manuel F. Nieves
At an event held at the Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, New York City Football Club (NYCFC) announced a historic $7.5 million donation to community organizations in Queens. This gesture marks a new chapter in the more than decade-long relationship between the club and New York City.
Two days later, on March 8, during the opening match of the 2025 season at Yankee Stadium, Council Member Francisco Moya, who received a symbolic check on behalf of local communities, gave emotional remarks on the field.
That same day, NYCFC kicked off its season with a 2–1 victory over Orlando City FC, a moment full of symbolism for the Queens community.
Council Member Moya, one of the main supporters behind the construction of the new stadium at Willets Point (Etihad Park), emphasized the importance of this investment not just for sports development, but as a long-term commitment to the community he proudly represents.
“I’m Council Member Francisco Moya, and I grew up here in Corona. Now we’re bringing this stadium to Willets Point, ensuring that people who live around here have the resources and financial support to make a real impact in their lives.”
He added,
“Thank you, NYCFC, for the commitment you’ve shown and for being a true partner to our community.”
The club reaffirmed its mission to invest in educational initiatives, youth development, and community well-being.
This new donation will benefit approximately 35 local organizations, including public schools, community centers, cultural groups, and youth-focused organizations such as the Hispanic Federation, East Elmhurst Corona Civic Association, the Edward J. Malloy Construction Skills Initiative, and more.
Moya also highlighted the broader impact this partnership has had beyond sports:
“From the moment we started working on the new Etihad Park in Willets Point, NYCFC has been fully committed to deepening its ties with Queens.”
The partnership with local organizations aims to expand access to essential services that serve residents and transform lives by investing in grassroots community efforts.
Through its City in the Community (CITC) foundation, NYCFC has built more than 50 community soccer fields and offered free programs in youth soccer, educational initiatives, and leadership development, reaching over 50,000 young people across all five boroughs.
With the opening of the future Etihad Park stadium, the club also launched a public ticket donation program, committing to provide a minimum of 1,000 free tickets per season to schools and local organizations.
“This initiative builds on the more than $10 million NYCFC has already donated to iconic locations such as Icahn Stadium and York College, consolidating its role as a key player in the social and cultural development of New York City.”
The presence and leadership of Council Member Moya in this process has been essential—not just as a public official, but as a New Yorker who understands the needs of his community. His active role has ensured that investments reach the communities that need them most.
April, 2025
NEW COMMANDER AT PRECINCT 110
By: Manuel F. Nieves
Elmhurst, Queens.
Inspector Tony Wong commits to strengthening security and fighting scams
The new leadership seeks to work hand in hand with the community to prevent crime, build trust, and protect residents from common fraud schemes.
At his first press conference as the new commander of Precinct 110, Deputy Inspector Tony Wong made it clear that he is committed to neighborhood safety and community collaboration. Speaking in front of local media and community members, Wong highlighted the importance of teamwork among police officers and residents in the area.
“I will continue working very hard with other department officials to improve the safety of your community,” said Wong, emphasizing that his approach is focused on crime prevention and strengthening trust between the police and the public.
The event was attended by various community leaders, including Mr. Oswaldo Guzmán, president of the Ecuadorian Civic Committee of NY, as well as students and parents from local high schools and families.
Deputy Inspector Wong also offered valuable safety tips to help residents avoid becoming victims of scams, given the increasing number of fraud cases.
He warned about the risks of sending checks through the mail and recommended using direct deposits instead to avoid theft. “Avoid sending checks. It is much safer to receive your payments directly to your bank account,” he advised.
He also spoke about fraudulent emails and text messages designed to steal personal information. “Don’t open emails asking for personal data—they are scams.”
“We are also seeing an increase in fake messages about package deliveries,” he added.
“Do not respond to those messages either,” Wong said, explaining that many of these fraud attempts aim to gain access to banking and confidential information.
The new commander also issued a direct call to the community:
“Don’t be afraid to call 911. If you witness a crime, report it. The police are here to help and work with you.”
With these remarks, Deputy Inspector Tony Wong marks the beginning of a new chapter at Precinct 110, focused on transparency, community connection, and a strong stance against crime and fraud.
‘Schumer and Hillary, Speak Up’
February 2007
By Edwin Andrés Martínez Tutek
Diario HOY
Image by Manuel F Nieves
emartinez@hoyllc.com
NEW YORK –
With the Statue of Liberty behind them and demanding that Senators Charles Schumer and Hillary Clinton fully commit to the fight for undocumented immigrants, representatives from over 36 churches urged the Bush administration to treat immigrants with fair and just laws.
«Senators, because if you call yourselves leaders and yet remain silent while Congress debates laws against immigrants, then what kind of leaders are you?» said Catholic priest John Duffell, from the Church of the Ascension, during the protest held at Battery Park in Lower Manhattan.
Carrying banners demanding better treatment not only for undocumented immigrants but also for all foreigners living in the United States, more than 100 people—including Catholics, Protestants, Baptists, Lutherans, Muslims, Orthodox Christians, Jews, and representatives of different religious beliefs—called on Congress and the White House to halt initiatives that aim to criminalize illegal immigration, such as the bill approved by the House of Representatives in December.
«It is not right for lawmakers to treat us like animals, and that in the 21st century, in a country that preaches democracy, there is talk of building more walls at the border and imposing degrading treatment,» said Ecuadorian Manuel Nieves.
Lutheran bishop Stephen Bouman stated that it is essential to create a fair legal mechanism so that undocumented immigrants who work in this country can obtain residency and citizenship and to stop using the 9/11 attacks as an excuse to attack immigrants.
«With unjust laws, what kind of country are we building?» he asked.
‘I wanted to share my passion’
November 2008
In 2005, she started offering affordable photography classes at Local Project, naming her initiative Project Luz (Light Project). Her goal was to help immigrants, especially Latina women, reconnect with their identity and visualize their future in a new way.
The success of her workshops led the Queens Museum to hire her as a bilingual educator and exhibit her students’ work in 2006. One of her most notable projects was «Local Words», a photo and video series representing the lives of immigrants in Queens, inspired by the ABCDF: Portraits of Mexico City exhibition.
Since then, Project Luz has taught photography to over 1,000 Latina women, offering both group workshops and private lessons. Aramendi has also collaborated with El Museo del Barrio, working alongside sociologist Pedro Colónon a project that taught photography to senior citizens in East Harlem, who documented the changes in their community through images and stories.
Her work has helped many immigrants discover art as a tool for expression and empowerment.
HIBRIDOS: ARTE DOMINICANO EN NUEVA YORK
The Latino Cultural Center of New York is presenting the collective exhibition «Hybrids», showcasing Dominican-American visual artists at the Queens Museum of Art. The exhibition features paintings by Jesús Betances, Raquel M. Colón, Tania Marmolejo, and Jorge Peña, along with photographs by Maximiliano Medina and Rafael de los Santos. The curator, Diógenes Abreu, presents his installation «Sleeping with the Enemy.»
During a conversation, Abreu explained that Dominicans are the result of a historical and cultural mix that began even before Christopher Columbus arrived on the island, as different indigenous groups coexisted with diverse languages and traditions. The exhibit reflects the fusion of races, cultures, and languages that has continued to evolve.
Assemblyman José Peralta awarded recognitions to the participating artists. The opening ceremony featured Dominican singer Blanco, who performed songs from his album «Ser Tu Ángel», highlighting the fusion of languages in his music.
The exhibition will be open to the public from February 7 to March 7, with free admission.
The Latino Cultural Center of New York, directed by Juan Nicolás Tineo, promotes Hispanic and Latino culturethrough art exhibitions, poetry readings, and narratives. Its board is chaired by José de la Rosa, with Fausto Rodríguez as secretary.
«Celebration with dances and rituals for Inti Raymi»
With a colorful, musical, and proud atmosphere, the Ecuadorian indigenous community celebrated Inti Raymi(Festival of the Sun) in New York.
The event was sponsored by the National Secretariat for Migrants (SENAMI) and supported by various organizations such as Juventud Ecuatoriana, Ayazamana, the Kichwa Community of the Bronx, and the Queens Museum of Art.
As part of the celebration, the «Concert of the Reencounter of the Eagle and the Condor» was held at the Hall of Science in Corona, Queens, featuring dance groups like Inka Folk from Peru, Ayazamana from Ecuador, Red Hawk Native American Dance Troupe from North America, Urama Shikan from Ecuador, and Mystic Warriors.
The following day, the celebration continued at Flushing Park with the Andean Festival, where a ritual was performed in honor of the Father Sun (Inti) and Mother Earth (Pachamama). Hundreds of people, both Latino and from other ethnic backgrounds, participated in the festivities.
The event highlighted the efforts of Fabián Muenala, who organizes and promotes this important Andean tradition in New York every year.
«Assemblyman Francisco Moya Paid Tribute to the Ecuadorian Community.»
New York State Assemblyman Francisco Moya, of Ecuadorian descent, paid tribute to the Ecuadorian community in celebration of Ecuadorian Heritage Month.
During the event, proclamations and recognitions were awarded to various community leaders, businesspeople, and the young Ecuadorian-American star Fátima Ptacek. With his characteristic enthusiasm, Moya reminisced about his childhood experiences in his parents’ homeland.
He also expressed his gratitude to the many community leaders present, who helped foster an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie, despite ideological differences.
One of the most memorable moments of the event was when Moya, in a sarcastic tone, addressed the criticism he has received on social media, stating: «I promise to stay until the end of the event; I won’t leave in five minutes…», which sparked laughter and applause from the audience.
Among those honored with proclamations from the New York State Assembly were:
Rafael Rodríguez, president of the National Confederation of Ecuadorian Journalists – NY Chapter.
Juan Inga, Ecuadorian entrepreneur.
Fátima Ptacek, voice of Dora the Explorer.
Carmen Velásquez, civil judge in New York.
The event also featured New York State Senator José Peralta and Ecuadorian government officials, including the Consul General of Ecuador, Dr. Jorge López.
It is important to remember that Ecuadorians celebrate in August the First Cry of Independence in the Americas, which took place in Quito on August 10, 1809. The ceremony was held at Sabor Latino restaurant in Queens.
Community
July 2009
Mr. Oswaldo Guzmán, president, and Estefanía Bermeo, Queen of the Ecuadorian Civic Committee, are seen working closely together with other members of the institution to ensure a great celebration.
In the tri-state area, various organizations and committees have begun preparations to celebrate Ecuadorian festivities and commemorate the «Primer Grito de la Independencia de Ecuador«. Which this year marks the Bicentennial.
Let’s remember that months ago, Mr. Tony Toral and his organization, Ecuafest, got ahead of everyone and celebrated the Battle of Pichincha with a parade and festival in Upper Manhattan, which had little reception from Ecuadorians.
In New Jersey, to remember the Bicentennial of the heroic and tragic First Cry of Independence of Ecuador, two different organizations are promoting two parades on the same date, with pageants and festivals. Both aim to highlight Ecuadorian culture and folklore, but they also show the lack of unity in the community.
In New York, the Ecuadorian Civic Committee, with its president Oswaldo Guzmán, and the institution’s queen, Estefanía Bermeo, are working hard on the festivities.
On July 18, there will be an event to introduce the pageant candidates, along with a press conference, at the Queens Museum of Art.
Alex Dario Aguinaga spent time with the community.
On Sunday, August 16, at Flushing Corona Meadows Park, the third edition of the «El Chasqui-NY» race and walk took place, featuring the presence of former Ecuadorian soccer player Álex Darío Aguinaga, who was named Chasqui de Oro 2009 and honored as a special guest.
Under a bright sun, hundreds of people, including athletes and Hispanic families, participated in the event. Despite his tight schedule, Aguinaga was always willing to sign autographs and take pictures with attendees.
After the walk, the winners from different categories and other participants gathered at the Queens Museum of Art, where they received medals and autographed jerseys from the Chasqui de Oro 2009, Álex Darío Aguinaga.
In his speech, Aguinaga made a call for unity, encouraging the community to become better human beings and work together for the progress of their country. He also humorously remarked: «We are all heroes: parents, athletes, and artists… but not politicians.»
Finally, after engaging with the public, Aguinaga bid farewell to continue his schedule at a festival in New Jersey.
EN EL LENTE highlighted the great work of Walter Sinche, the event’s organizer, who, through the Ecuadorian Alliance, continues to work tirelessly for the Ecuadorian community.
New York expressed its rejection of Arizona’s SB 1070 law.
New York expressed its rejection of Arizona’s SB 1070 law.
With banners protesting Arizona’s SB 1070 law, demonstrators demanded a boycott against the southern state and an immediate immigration reform.
From the early hours of May 1st, the organization SE HACE CAMINO NY gathered on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, while a vigil was held at Saint Leo Church in Corona.
Another key gathering point was Foley Square, near City Hall, where elected city officials delivered speeches in support of immigrants.
In Union Square, a traditional gathering place every year, demonstrators began assembling at noon, and by 3:30 p.m., they marched towards Foley Square.
Notably, delegations from the Ecuadorian Government were present, including Ecuador’s Consul General, Jorge López, as well as Pablo Calle, representative of Casa Ecuatoriana, and Ximena Peña.
The fact that multiple demonstrations took place across New York City may have impacted attendance at Union Square, making it smaller than in previous years.
Organizers should consider this for future events, ensuring unity in the fight for freedom and justice.
📷 March images available at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/xypress.
Cindy Matamoros elected Queen of the Ecuadorian Civic Committee of NY
Cindy Matamoros, representing the province of Guayas, was crowned as the new sovereign of the Ecuadorian Civic Committee of New York. Her election marked the beginning of various events that Ecuadorians celebrate in honor of their national holidays.
The new ambassador of Ecuadorian beauty in New York not only possesses natural charm but also demonstrated great confidence and elegance on the runway. Her stage presence and eloquence in public speaking were key factors in winning over both the jury and the audience.
Other Titles Awarded
The contest also recognized other young women in different categories:
Vice-Queen: Evelyn Saltos
«Criolla Bonita»: Luisa Paltin
Miss Congeniality: Andrea Guadalupe
Miss Friendship: Susan Delgado
Miss Photogenic: Gabriela Reyes
Miss Fraternity: Elizabeth Guzmán
Miss Sports: Verónica Calero
In the youth category, Jenny Espinoza, 16 years old, was crowned Juvenile Queen, while Jacqueline Rodas, 12 years old, was awarded the title of Juvenile Vice-Queen. Additionally, the «Pretty Girl» recognition was given to Michelle Silva, 14 years old.
The judging panel was composed of distinguished figures, including Mario Mancheno, director of the Hoboken University Medical Center; Juan José Ferreyros, Peruvian designer; Mayra del Rocío Ortiz, former Miss Hispanidad; María Eugenia Avilés, Ecuadorian consul; Jessica Flores, beauty expert; and Captain Gustavo Enríquez.
A Night of Elegance and Unity
The event featured musical performances by renowned artists Eli Cárdenas, Eliana Sasics, and Marck Balar, who captivated the audience with their talent.
Unlike other pageants, this election stood out for the order and harmony maintained by the attendees, despite the presence of numerous enthusiastic supporters.
Cindy Matamoros: A Queen with Purpose
In a brief interview, Cindy Matamoros shared details about her personal life and aspirations:
Date of Birth: January 12, 1987
Place of Birth: Cantón Milagro, Guayas Province
Height: 1.61 m (5’3»)
Measurements: 90-65-97 cm
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Dark brown
Languages: Spanish and English
Education: Currently a university student at LaGuardia Community College
Hobbies: Playing the guitar, reading, and singing
Favorite Book: Blindness – José Saramago
On Love: «It is the feeling that moves the world.»
On God: «He is the one who keeps me centered and guided.»
On Homeland: «It is the place where I was born and raised. It represents my education, my culture, and my traditions. Homeland means so much to me.»
Person She Admires: Ernesto «Che» Guevara
Goals: «For now, to finish my university studies and, as Queen of the Ecuadorian Civic Committee of NY, contribute to various social initiatives.»
Message: «A big greeting to my Ecuadorian community, and a call for unity during these difficult times for immigrants. We must stay more united than ever.»
Photography can change an immigrant’s life
NY AL DIA, September 2009. Text by Aura Sosa.
“Starting my photography classes at Project Luz allowed me to learn how to use a camera, which has helped me a lot,” says Manuel Nieves, a student who has been taking photography lessons for the past two years. «I now take photos to support my family,» adds Nieves, who has participated in various community events in New York.
This photography training initiative, Project Luz, was created as a platform to empower immigrants through visual storytelling. According to its founder, Sol Aramendi, an Argentine photographer, the goal is to provide immigrants with tools for self-expression and new professional opportunities.
A Space for Learning and Creativity
Project Luz offers free photography classes for immigrants, teaching not only technical skills but also how to tell their own stories through images. The classes, held in Long Island City, Local Project, and other cultural spaces, provide participants with hands-on experience in photography, lighting, and composition.
For many students, photography is more than a hobby—it is a means of communication and self-discovery. Some, like Luz Campo, Luz T., and Paola Lugo, have even started publishing their own photographs in local exhibitions.
According to Aramendi, many immigrants arrive in New York looking for work and stability but find it difficult to integrate into their new environment. «Photography offers them a way to connect with their surroundings, express their emotions, and feel a sense of belonging,» she explains.
Photography as Therapy and Empowerment
Beyond technical skills, many students describe the classes as a form of therapy. Ramón Galán, a Dominican student, says, “Photography has helped me reduce stress, overcome my fears, and see the world from a new perspective.”
For Manuel Nieves, photography has not only improved his artistic skills but has also given him the confidence to interact with his community and tell his own story.
Aramendi emphasizes the importance of offering classes in Spanish and English, ensuring that students who are not fluent in English still feel comfortable expressing themselves. «Language should never be a barrier to learning,» she affirms.
Expanding Opportunities for Immigrants
The success of Project Luz has led to new workshops, exhibitions, and community collaborations. Students have participated in projects that document immigrant life in New York, New Jersey, and beyond.
For many, these experiences have opened doors to freelance photography jobs, exhibitions, and cultural collaborations. As Project Luz grows, its mission remains the same: to empower immigrants through the transformative power of photography.
New Courses Coming in October – November
Project Luz will continue to offer photography courses in the upcoming months. These classes are open to all immigrants interested in learning photography techniques, digital editing, and visual storytelling.
www.manuelfnieves.com 