Recognizing the Culture and Heritage of Taíno Descendants in Rhode Island

WHEREAS, The residents of this state of Taíno heritage merit recognition; and

WHEREAS, Such residents serve a vital role in the state's diverse cultural fabric; 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 both historically and culturally to this state; 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; and

WHEREAS, The State of Rhode Island 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; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island hereby 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; and be it further

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