On Tuesday, June 6, 2017, the 33rd Annual Heritage Day of Portugal took place in the House of Representatives Chamber at the Massachusetts State House on Beacon Hill. The event – hosted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Portuguese-American Legislative Caucus – “recognizes individuals who have excelled in their lives and who serve as role models for others to emulate.” Portuguese-Americans and others who have worked to better the Portuguese-American community are honored. The ceremony also featured entertainment by the Tuna de Medicina of the University of Coimbra.
This year’s guest of honor was Dr. Pedro Carneiro, the Consul of Portugal in New Bedford. Carneiro began his term of civil service in 1997 and has served around the world. His term as the Consul of Portugal in New Bedford began in August of 2013 and will soon end. The committee recognized Dr. Carneiro for his support of the Portuguese-American community in the South Coast of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He also served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker.
Massachusetts Senator Marc Pacheco addressing the audience at the cerimonies of the Heritage Day of Portugal, at Massachusetts State House.
Massachusetts State Representative Tony Cabral addressing the audience at the cerimonies of the Heritage Day of Portugal, at Massachusetts State House.
The 2017 Portuguese Heritage Award Recipients are:
- Henry Mello
- Joseph R. Norte
- João Menelau Paraskeva
- Joseph P. Lopes
- Michael Tavares
- Adam Costa
- Scott P. Lopes
- Joseph A. Martinho
- Carlos Manuel Martins Cesar
- Victor Farias
- Catherine Amaral Deese
- Tami Gouveia
- Sara N. da Silva Quintal
- Michelle Romeiro Medeiros
- Susan Leonard
- Kevin Luz Santos
- John P. Ferreira
- Nancy Moniz
- Duarte Miguel Camara
- Allen Alves
- Mark Cafua
- Maria Heduina Camara
Following the ceremony, a reception was held in the State House’s Hall of Flags featuring Portuguese-inspired refreshments prepared by local students.
