Casa Caney: An Artist Gathering

A space that moves like the rhythm of our communities—raw, real, and alive with the voices of Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) artists ready to connect, vibe, and express. This isn’t just another meet-up; it’s a call for those who live the art, who feel the weight of oppression and push back with words, beats, dance, performance, and movement. We’re hosting a social hour and open mic where you can spit your truth, or sit back, sip, and soak up the energy. Small bites, real talk, and a space that’s got your back.

So, what does Casa Caney mean? Well, Casa (pronounced as "KAH-sah") is a Spanish word meaning "house," commonly used to refer to a home or residence. The term can also extend to various uses, such as in business names (e.g., Casa de Cambio for currency exchange), cultural sites, or organizations, emphasizing the idea of a place or space. It is typically associated with shelter, family, or community gatherings, and can represent both physical and symbolic spaces where people come together. This meaning applies broadly in Spanish-speaking cultures, including the Dominican Republic.

Caney (pronounced as "kah-NAY") is a Taíno word meaning "sacred house," referring to a communal or ceremonial space used by chiefs and spiritual leaders for important gatherings and rituals. The Taíno people are Indigenous inhabitants of the Caribbean, primarily living in what is now Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica. They were among the first Indigenous groups to resist European colonization during the arrival of Columbus in 1492. In the spirit of that resistance, Casa 

Caney stands as a space for BIPOC artists to gather, create, and reclaim our narratives. Just as our ancestors fought to protect their land and culture, we create this sacred space to honor our histories, resist oppression, and empower our communities through art, expression, and solidarity.

So come through, show love, share your art, and remember: this is our space, our stories, our power.