Recognizing the Culture and Heritage of Taíno Descendants in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, The residents of the State of Rhode Island of Taíno heritage represent a diverse cultural community in our state; and

WHEREAS, The Taíno are the Indigenous people of Borikén and other Caribbean Islands, with a rich cultural heritage, language, and traditions; and

WHEREAS, Members of several Taíno tribal communities, including the Cibuco Bayamón Taíno Tribe, the Baramaya Guainía Yukayeke, and the Baitoa Magua Yaque Taíno, reside in and contribute to communities across the State of Rhode Island through cultural preservation, education, and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, The Taíno People contributed historically and culturally to the rich and vibrant history of Rhode Island; and

WHEREAS, Taíno-identifying residents of Rhode Island are part of a broader Taíno Diaspora and contribute to the cultural diversity of the state through education, community engagement, and cultural preservation; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby acknowledges the presence and partnership of the Rhode Island American Indian Heritage Commission, and the Federation of Aboriginal Nations of the Americas, whose members represent the continued survival and resurgence of Taíno heritage in the region; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this House furthermore recognizes Taíno heritage and acknowledges the presence and contributions of Taíno-descended residents within the state, ensuring that their heritage is recognized and preserved for future generations while fostering a greater understanding of their historical and ongoing contributions to the State of Rhode Island; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified resolution to the Taíno community representatives in Rhode Island.