<i> Paseo Boricua</i>. Identity, symbols and ownership

Abstract

This paper is about Paseo Boricua—a cultural landmark demarcated by two flags of steel that represents Puerto Rican identity in Humboldt Park, Chicago—and the ownership claims that surround the space. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationship between legally recognized systems of ownership and, conversely, symbolic methods for claiming ownership employed by those who identify themselves in the area with the Puerto Rican culture. The article draws from personal interviews, observations, and newspaper clips, among other documents, to address the following question: How can identity and symbols be used to make collective claims of ownership?