Jennifer Lopez, a popular entertainer, recently appeared on the internet talk show ‘Subway Takes’ and sparked a debate about who can call themselves a New Yorker. Lopez, who was born and raised in the Bronx, claimed that one must be born in New York to be considered a true New Yorker.
Defining a New Yorker
The question of who can claim the title of New Yorker has been a topic of discussion among residents and non-residents alike. Some argue that it’s not just about being born in the city, but about embracing the culture and lifestyle of New York. Others believe that it’s about the length of time one has lived in the city, with some suggesting a 10-year rule.
Brooklyn Borough President Vanessa Gibson weighed in on the debate, stating that to be a true New Yorker, one must know how to navigate the city’s streets with confidence, have a favorite neighborhood bodega, and be genuinely invested in the city’s success.
Asad Dandia, the official historian of Brooklyn, believes that a New Yorker is anyone who sees themselves as part of the city’s story and culture, regardless of whether they were born and raised there or not.
The debate highlights the complexities of defining a New Yorker, with many arguing that it’s not just about birthplace or length of residence, but about the values and characteristics that define the city and its people.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
