Usnavi

Usnavi is a masculine title that fans of the musical and film In the Heights will certainly recognize. Created by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Quiara Alegría Hudes , In the Heights tells the story of a street corner in Washington Heights, New York, those who live there, and the dreams they each hold dear. Protagonist Usnavi de la Vega is a bodega owner who longs to return to his birthplace, the Dominican Republic.

Though the name Usnavi may remind you of the stage show and film, it actually first arose in Cuba, where monikers are sometimes chosen for very creative and symbolic reasons. Usnavi is believed to be inspired by American ships labelled "US Navy" that visited Cuba. For Lin-Manuel Miranda, the choice of Usnavi for his protagonist came from knowing someone with the title, and his belief that it represented the dreams and aspirations that led the character's parents to America. You and sweet Usnavi may connect to their name for a multitude of reasons, as a celebration of your Cuban roots or a representation of their unfolding life story and all the incredible things they'll achieve.