New York names Queens street after Dr. José Rizal

An intersection in Woodside, Queens, New York has been named “Dr. José Rizal Way,” on December 12, an enduring recognition of the Philippine national hero’s significant influence on the Filipino and Filipino American community in an area known for its large Filipino population.

The street co-naming was made possible through the initiative of Steven Raga, the first Filipino American elected to the New York State Assembly, with New York City Council Member Julie Won advancing the necessary legislation for the intersection of Woodside Avenue and 58th Street in Queens, the largest borough of New York City.

New York City Council Member Julie Won noted the co-naming reflects the growing Filipino presence in her district and Woodside’s identity as a community shaped by generations of immigrants.

“It’s an honor to co-name an intersection in Woodside after Dr. José P. Rizal, the national hero for Filipinos in my district and beyond,” Won said. “This co-naming speaks to our ethos as a district of immigrants and honors the contributions and culture of our neighbors in the Filipino diaspora.”

During the unveiling ceremony, Consul General in New York Senen Mangalile delivered a speech connecting the historical legacy of Dr. Rizal to the contemporary Filipino migrant experience.

He highlighted that Rizal’s fight was not limited by geography, as the ideals he championed were universal and remain acutely relevant today, specifically the pursuit of equality, anti-colonialism, and women’s rights. The Consul General drew a direct parallel between Rizal’s global perspective and the current generation of Filipino migrants, who embody these universal ideals through their resilience and contributions, enriching the diverse, multicultural fabric of New York City.

Mangalile extended his heartfelt gratitude to the entire Filipino community, with a special acknowledgment of the dedication shown by all the chapters of the Knights of Rizal in New York. Their steadfast commitment and collaborative efforts were instrumental in bringing this tribute to fruition, he said.

“The renaming of this intersection is a beautiful and inspiring result of our community working together toward a common goal,” he said. “It stands as a testament to the power of unity and our collective pride in our heritage.” 

The co-naming ceremony was attended by Congresswoman Grace Meng and representatives from the various chapters of Knights of Rizal and Filipino American organizations in New York. – Philippine Consulate General