About DB Yale
Our Mission
Despierta Boricua exists as Yale's Puerto Rican cultural group to elevate, empower, and unite the Puerto Rican community—celebrating our rich heritage, confronting injustice, and crafting a future where our voices are heard and our dignity is upheld.
Our History
Despierta Boricua (DB) was founded in 1971 by Puerto Rican students at Yale University. The founders included Eduardo Padró, Manuel Del Valle, Cruz Ramos, Gilberto "Gilbert" Casellas, and Hector Medina. These men were working-class, (mostly) New York-based Puerto Rican men who were committed to advocating for the needs of Puerto Rican students at Yale and for the Puerto Rican community in New Haven.
DB's initial focus was on increasing the number of mainland Puerto
Rican students at Yale. At the time, the majority of Puerto Rican
students at Yale came from the island of Puerto Rico and were from
upper-class backgrounds.
DB believed that it was important to increase
the representation of mainland Puerto Ricans, who were more likely to be
working-class and from public school backgrounds.
In addition to their work on admissions, DB also advocated for the
establishment of a Puerto Rican studies program at Yale. They believed
that it was important for Puerto Rican students to have the opportunity
to learn about their history and culture. DB also sought to create an
inter-Ivy League network of Puerto Rican students and establish a Puerto Rican
cultural center at Yale.
DB's activism was successful in increasing the number of mainland Puerto Rican students at Yale and in raising awareness of the needs of Puerto Rican students and the Puerto Rican community. DB also helped to create a more inclusive environment for all students at Yale.
DB is still active today and continues to advocate for the needs of Puerto Rican students at Yale and for the Puerto Rican community.
History brought to you by Amanda Rivera, Yale University, Dissertation in Progress, 2024
Our Founders
Eduardo Padró
Co-founder, 1971
Manuel Del Valle
Co-founder, 1971
Cruz Ramos
Co-founder, 1971
Gilberto Casellas
Co-founder, 1971
Hector Medina
Co-founder, 1971
Our Values
Community
Building strong connections within the Yale Puerto Rican community and beyond.
Justice
Advocating for social and political equity for Puerto Ricans and all marginalized groups.
Education
Promoting knowledge and understanding of Puerto Rican history, culture, and current issues.
Activism
Taking meaningful action to create positive change both on campus and in wider society.
Cultural Experience
"La brega" is a uniquely Puerto Rican concept that embodies resourcefulness, resilience, and the ability to navigate life's challenges with creativity. It's an essential part of Puerto Rican cultural identity, especially in the face of adversity.
Join Our Community
Be part of our ongoing mission to elevate Puerto Rican voices and create meaningful change.