R 354 |
2015 -- S 0970 Enacted 06/04/2015 |
S E N A T E R E S O L U T I O N |
PROCLAIMING JUNE 10, 2015, AS THE "DAY OF PORTUGAL" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND |
Introduced By: Senators DaPonte, Paiva Weed, Lombardi, Satchell, and Felag |
Date Introduced: June 04, 2015 |
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 and 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, while 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 the Providence and Bristol 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 palates with fine restaurants that serve |
traditional Portuguese dishes, and they actively contribute to 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 thanks Rhode Island's Portuguese Community for the many contributions it has |
generously made to the enrichment of this state; and be it further |
RESOLVED, That this Senate hereby recognizes June 10, 2015, as the "Day of Portugal" |
in the State of Rhode Island. We join in the celebration of the 38th Anniversary of this auspicious |
occasion; 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 the Rhode Island "Day of Portugal" Committee. |
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LC002788 |
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