04-R 320
2004 -- S 3191
Enacted 06/10/04
S E N A T E R E S O L U T I O N
PROCLAIMING
THE MONTH OF JUNE AS "PORTUGUESE AMERICAN MONTH" IN THE STATE OF
RHODE ISLAND
Introduced
By: Senators DaPonte, Paiva-Weed, and Algiere
Date
Introduced: June 10, 2004
WHEREAS,
June 10th marks the Anniversary of the death of Luis Camoes, a gifted and
renowned
Portuguese poet. The day is now celebrated around the world as the National Day
of
Portugal;
and
WHEREAS,
Rhode Island’s large and significant Portuguese population has made
substantial
contributions to all aspects of the state’s history as well as being valuable
contributors
to
Rhode Island’s rich cultural diversity; and
WHEREAS,
Between 1830 and 1860, whaling ships from Bristol, Newport, New
Bedford
and Fall River traveled to the Azores where they often took on Portuguese
sailors. Many
of
these sailors traveled back to New England, settling in Providence, Pawtucket
and East
Providence.
They frequently took on work in the textile mills, which were abundant in the
area at
the
time. Others became farmers in Little Compton and Portsmouth; and
WHEREAS,
The main goal for the Portuguese people coming to Rhode Island and the
United
States was economic betterment, but like the Irish and Italians, the Portuguese
people all
too
often suffered discrimination and exploitation in employment. Through
perseverance and an
indomitable
work ethic they carved a future for themselves and their families; and
WHEREAS,
The number of Portuguese people who currently reside in Rhode Island is
more
than 90,000, with the majority making their homes in Providence County, as well
as the
Bristol
and Newport counties; and
WHEREAS,
The Portuguese American population in Rhode Island is an active and vital
part
of our state. They have enriched and delighted our palettes with fine
restaurants that serve
traditional
Portuguese dishes. They actively contribute and participate in all areas of the
community
through various businesses, artistic contributions, volunteerism, politics and
patriotism;
now, therefore be it
RESOLVED,
That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
hereby
recognizes Rhode Island’s Portuguese Community for the myriad of contributions
they
have
generously made to the enrichment of this state; and be it further
RESOLVED,
That this Senate proclaims the month of June as “Portuguese American
Month”
in the State of Rhode Island; and be it further
RESOLVED,
That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to
transmit
a duly certified copy of this resolution to the Rhode Island Day of Portugal
Committee.
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LC03662
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