Rep. David Valadao
June would be designated as Portuguese National Heritage Month under a bipartisan resolution sponsored on June 5 by U.S. Rep. David Valadao (R-CA), a Portuguese American whose parents emigrated from the Azores Islands of Portugal in search of more opportunities for their families.
“Portuguese Americans have made incredible contributions to our communities here in the Central Valley and across the country,” Rep. Valadao said. “This month, we recognize Portuguese Americans who have made a lasting impact on the fabric of our country. I’m honored to recognize June as Portuguese National Heritage Month, and I’m proud to be a member of the Portuguese American community.”
The congressman proposed House Resolution (H.Res.) 466 with five original cosponsors, including lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA). Reps. Valadao and Costa serve as co-chairs of the Congressional Portuguese Caucus.
If enacted, H.Res. 466 also would highlight the contributions that Portuguese Americans have made to America, including serving in Congress, the U.S. military, the government, and at institutions of higher education; being leaders in the dairy industry; and introducing the ukulele, among many others, according to the text of the bill.
Additionally, the resolution notes that Portuguese Americans, particularly emigrants from the Azores Archipelago, have “built bridges of cooperation and innovation that have strengthened trans-Atlantic relations through local and international Portuguese-American associations, such as the Luso-American Development Foundation and the Portuguese American Leadership Council.”
“As a proud descendant of Portuguese immigrants, the traditions and values my family took from the Azores have never been far from my heart,” said Rep. Costa. “I’m honored to introduce this bipartisan resolution designating June as Portuguese National Heritage Month and recognizing the contributions of the Portuguese American community to our nation.”
H.Res. 466 has been referred to the U.S. House Oversight and Accountability Committee for consideration.