Expressing support for the designation of June as Portuguese National Heritage Month.

119th Congress Introduced by Ed Case and 8 co-sponsors

Declares June as Portuguese National Heritage Month to honor Portuguese Americans’ contributions across history, culture, and community life.

Submitted in House

Summary of H.Res. 1390 (119th Congress)

Purpose and Intent

Expresses the House of Representatives’ support for designating June as Portuguese National Heritage Month.

Celebrates the contributions of Portuguese Americans to the United States and affirms the integral role of the Portuguese-American community in the country’s economy, culture, and identity.

Key Provisions

Official designation: Calls for recognizing June as Portuguese National Heritage Month.

Recognition of contributions: Acknowledges Portuguese Americans’ roles in:

Early American maritime and labor history (e.g., whaling, grape cultivation)
Government and political leadership (including early influence in Hawaii and notable Members of Congress)
Public service, education, and the military
Cultural contributions to American life (e.g., introducing the ukulele; influence on American music and culture)
Agriculture and industry (notably in California dairy and other agricultural sectors)
Community and international relations (through Portuguese-American organizations and the Embassy of Portugal’s engagement with America250)

Community impact: Emphasizes the significance of Portuguese heritage in communities such as New Bedford and Fall River, Massachusetts, and across the United States.

Observance guidance: Urges the American people to observe Portuguese National Heritage Month with appropriate programs and activities that celebrate the contributions of the Portuguese community.

Who/What would be Affected

Portuguese Americans and the broader Portuguese diaspora in the United States.

Communities and institutions that engage in cultural celebrating and heritage programming.

Agencies and entities involved in ceremonial or commemorative designations (the resolution is a symbolic, non-binding expression of support).

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduced in the House on June 24, 2026.

Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for consideration.

As a House Resolution, the measure is primarily symbolic and would not create new laws or impose regulatory requirements. It serves to express legislative sentiment and to encourage commemorative observances.

Sponsors and Support

Primary sponsor: Representative Valadao, with a bipartisan group of co-sponsors including:

Mike Lawler
Ed Case
Hank Johnson
Jim Costa
Stephen Lynch
David Valadao
Bill Keating
Adam Gray
Lori Trahan

Potential Impact

Raises awareness of Portuguese American history and heritage.

May inspire educational programs, cultural events, and recognition within communities and institutions nationwide.

Could inform public commemorations and inspire related commemorations or partnerships with Portuguese organizations and the Embassy of Portugal.

Note: The bill is strictly a non-binding resolution expressing support for a national heritage observance and does not alter statutes, funding, or federal programs.