Proclaiming and Acknowledging June of 2026 as "Portuguese American Heritage Month" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, Rhode Island takes immense pride in its cultural diversity and heritage, and proudly recognizes the significant contributions of the Portuguese American community since colonial times; and

WHEREAS, The Rhode Island Day of Portugal advocates for honoring all Portuguese Americans by declaring June as Portuguese American Heritage Month in the State of Rhode Island; and

WHEREAS, Portuguese Americans constitute a substantial and vibrant segment of Rhode Island's population, with strong communities in cities including Bristol, East Providence, Cumberland, Pawtucket, Portsmouth, Tiverton, Warren, Cranston, West Warwick, Newport, and Providence; and

WHEREAS, The contributions of Portuguese Americans to Rhode Island are celebrated annually through cultural events such as the Rhode Island Day of Portugal Heritage Festival and various church and club festivals, showcasing Portuguese culture, music, dance, food, and traditions; and

WHEREAS, The Portuguese American community has played a pivotal role in Rhode Island's educational, political, and social advancement, with many leaders and citizens of Portuguese descent serving in public service roles; and

WHEREAS, The month of June holds significance, as Portugal's National Day on June th commemorates the legacy of Luís de Camões, Portugal's national poet, whose works have left an indelible mark on world literature; and

WHEREAS, The Portuguese American community in Rhode Island has demonstrated resilience and hard work, and has contributed significantly to various industries such as whaling, fishing, textiles, and jewelry, thereby shaping the State's economic landscape; and

WHEREAS, The historic Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Providence, which was founded in 1886 by Portuguese immigrants, stands as the oldest continuously active Portuguese American church in the United States, and symbolizes the enduring legacy of Portuguese immigration to Rhode Island; and

WHEREAS, The contributions of early Portuguese Jews, such as Jacob Rodrigues Rivera, Aaron Lopez, and Isaac Touro, are commemorated by landmarks like the historic Touro Synagogue in Newport, which symbolizes religious freedom and tolerance in the United States; and

WHEREAS, The Portuguese Discovery Monument at Brenton Point celebrates Portugal's legacy of nautical innovation, honoring Prince Henry's establishment of a nautical school in Sagres Point in 1419 and the development of the Caravel, a vessel that revolutionized maritime exploration; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby proclaims and acknowledges June of 2026 as “Portuguese American Heritage Month” in recognition of the enduring contributions of Portuguese Americans to the State's cultural, economic, and social fabric; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to Governor Daniel McKee, the Prime Minister of Portugal, the President of Portugal, the Vice-Consulate of Portugal in Providence, and the Rhode Island Day of Portugal nonprofit organization.