Diversity in Santiago de los Caballeros

Body Size/Image

In the Dominican Republic, body size and image are often discussed openly, both in public and in the homestay environment, with cultural attitudes differing significantly from those in many Western societies. In public, comments about someone’s weight or size, whether gaining or losing, are common and usually not considered offensive. People may remark on someone’s appearance as a way to express concern or affection. While direct comments like “Estás más gordo” (You’ve gained weight) or “Estás más flaca” (You’ve gotten thinner) can be heard, they are often intended in a lighthearted or observant manner rather than as criticisms.

In homestay environments, family members and hosts might also comment on body size in similar ways. Food plays a central role in Dominican hospitality, and offering guests generous portions is a way of showing care. Refusing food can sometimes be seen as unusual or even offensive, and discussions around weight may arise in relation to how much or how little a guest eats. However, these conversations are usually informal and not meant to harm. There is a cultural appreciation for fuller body types, as they are often associated with health and abundance, reflecting traditional beauty standards. Despite this, modern influences and social media are gradually shifting perspectives on body image, introducing more Western ideals of slimness.

Disability

Generally, in the Dominican Republic, our communities and academic institutions are not fully accessible to people of all ages, sizes, and abilities, though the country has made progress toward greater inclusivity in recent years. In general, there are no discriminatory attitudes toward people with disabilities. On the contrary, given the friendly and considerate nature of Dominicans, local are supportive and try to accommodate people with disabilities.

Students are encouraged to provide as much information as they can related to their specific disabilities (or related needs) prior to arrival so CIEE staff can assess potential challenges and arrange for appropriate accommodations.

Gender and Gender Identity

In developing countries such as the Dominican Republic, patriarchal regimes and structures are the relevant organizing principles of all dimensions of society, therefore societal interactions have a high level of paternalism and machismo in day-to-day life.  Although it is common in the Dominican Republic for both women and men to live in their parental home until marriage, it is more expected for women than for men. The family unit includes the extended family such as cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and others.  
Although machismo is evolving and diminishing, it is still very much part of our cultural identity. For example, women are expected to be good mothers and men are expected to be good providers. Therefore, the interactions between women and men are highly influenced by the identity and roles as expected by Dominican society.

X Gender Marker

The recognition of the X-gender marker in the Dominican Republic is still in its nascent stages. While some countries have made significant strides in acknowledging non-binary and gender-diverse identities, the Dominican Republic has yet to fully embrace this change. As of now, official documents such as passports and national IDs do not offer an X-gender option, which can pose challenges for gender X passport holders.
For individuals traveling to the Dominican Republic with an X-gender marker on their passport, it is important to be aware of potential implications. These may include confusion or lack of understanding from local authorities and institutions, as well as possible administrative hurdles when dealing with official paperwork. It is advisable to carry additional documentation that explains the X-gender marker to help mitigate any misunderstandings.

Heritage Seekers

American heritage-seeking students in the Dominican Republic often experience a unique blend of connection and challenge. These students typically arrive with a strong desire to explore their ancestral roots, seeking a deeper understanding of their heritage. This journey often fosters a profound sense of belonging as they immerse themselves in the local culture, traditions, and community life. Engaging with local customs, participating in cultural festivals, and building relationships with Dominican peers can significantly enhance their sense of identity and belonging.

However, the experience is not without its complexities. While many Dominicans are welcoming and supportive, there can be varying perceptions and expectations of American heritage seekers. Some locals may view these students with curiosity and admiration for their dedication to understanding their roots. Others might have preconceived notions about Americans, influenced by media portrayals or past interactions, which can lead to mixed expectations.

Overall, the local perception of American heritage-seeking students is generally positive, with an appreciation for their efforts to connect with their heritage. The key to a successful and enriching experience lies in mutual respect, open-mindedness, and a genuine willingness to learn and adapt. By embracing these values, heritage seekers can navigate the cultural landscape of the Dominican Republic, forging meaningful connections and a deeper sense of belonging.

Racial and Ethnic Identity

National identity issues in the Dominican Republic related to blackness and whiteness are still prevalent. There are standards of whiteness in the Dominican society that have been dictated by governing forces and that continue to impact everyday life. Although the majority of the country is of African descendent, the various tones of “skin complexion” is used for creating an imaginary detachment of the Dominican national identity from its African ancestry. Sadly, this has led to social, economic, and political marginalization for dark-skinned Dominicans.

To address both overt and latent racism and discrimination – although rare – CIEE Santiago staff are available to provide support and resources to help all CIEE students enjoy and learn from their study abroad experience, irrespective of – indeed, celebrating – our diverse racial and ethnic identities.  CIEE Santiago is sensitive to the range of these issues and will provide information and support to proactively create an inclusive community.

Religion

The Dominican Republic is predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the most widely practiced faith, followed by Protestant Christianity. Approximately 60% of the population identifies as Catholic, while around 20% are Protestant. The country also hosts small communities of Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and other religious groups. However, these are not predominant, and non-Catholic students might be met with curiosity and biases.

The Dominican Republic upholds freedom of religion, allowing individuals to practice their faith openly and without persecution. This environment enables students from various religious backgrounds to find places of worship and community. The Muslim community, though small, is present, with mosques available in major cities like Santiago and Santo Domingo. Jewish students can find synagogues in Santo Domingo and Sosúa. The Jewish community, though small, is active and supportive, particularly in these areas. Numerous churches cater to both Catholic and Protestant students, with many offering English-language services for international visitors.

Overall, the Dominican Republic’s strong religious background, symbolized by the Bible on its flag, ensures that students from various faiths can practice their religion, feel included, and find supportive communities.

Sexual Orientation

In the Dominican Republic, there are few policies to protect people of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. .  However, progress is being made; a survey conducted by the UNDP, UNFPA and the Ministry of Education of the Dominican Republic (MINERD) found that 80% of female students and 72% of students affirmed that they agree to respect people with diverse sexual orientations, which gives the certainty that future generations are building healthy and respectful relationships with LGBTIQ people. 

Socioeconomic Status

Dominican socioeconomic structure rife with the conflicts and contradictions typical of developing countries whereby most of the population lives with social and economic precariousness. Society is fragmented into three very unequal levels of socioeconomic status: an estimated 10% of the population that controls the majority of the wealth; 60% of the population that is part of a growing working class; and 40% of the population that is economically poor as defined by the World Bank. Therefore, there are large social inequalities that create constant struggles for advancement and survival within the middle class and those living in poverty. These inequalities are the basis for disruption, protests, and strikes, although the country is considered to be a very safe one.