Ghetto Brothers facts for kids

The Ghetto Brothers were a community organization and music group that started in New York City's South Bronx in the late 1960s. Their main goal was to help and support young Latino and Black men in their neighborhood.

The Ghetto Brothers' Story

The Ghetto Brothers began in the South Bronx, New York City, in the late 1960s. Over time, their influence grew, reaching parts of the Northeastern United States. They were involved in community efforts and politics, similar to another group called the Young Lords.

Community and Political Involvement

The Ghetto Brothers were especially interested in the Puerto Rico independence movement. They worked with the Puerto Rican Socialist Party, which was a new political group at the time. Their members were driven by a desire to uplift young Latino and Black men in their community. They wanted to create positive change and support for young people.

The Ghetto Sisters

Under the leadership of Benjamin Melendez, the Ghetto Brothers treated the women involved with their group with respect. These women were known as the Ghetto Sisters. This name showed that they were seen as important members of the organization and as partners. This was different from how women were sometimes treated by other youth groups in New York during that period.

Notable Members

Some people who were part of the Ghetto Brothers later became well-known. For example, Eddie Perez, who later became the mayor of Hartford, Connecticut, was a member when he was young. Robert Dominguez, a writer for the New York Daily News, was a leader of a Ghetto Brothers division in the Bronx during his teenage years.

What Does the Name Mean?

The name Ghetto Brothers was chosen by Hui Cambrelen. He was one of the original founders, along with Ray DelaVega and Benjy Melendez.

The Music Group

Benjamin Melendez, who left the community organization in 1976, was also a talented guitarist. He led a band that was also called the Ghetto Brothers. His late brother, Victor Melendez, played bass in the band.

Their Album: Power-Fuerza

The Ghetto Brothers band released one album in 1971, titled Ghetto Brothers - Power-Fuerza. This album was first distributed locally, meaning it was mainly sold in their community. It has since been re-released on CD, allowing more people to hear their music.

Music Releases

• 1971 – Ghetto Brothers - Power-Fuerza (Salsa Records - SLP 2008) This album was recorded at Fintone Studio and produced by Bobby Marin.

See also

In Spanish: Ghetto Brothers para niños