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SR 3349

SENATE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING AND ACKNOWLEDGING JUNE OF 2026 AS "PORTUGUESE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Britto and 9 co-sponsors

Designates June 2026 as Portuguese American Heritage Month in Rhode Island to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Portuguese Americans.

06/04/2026 Senate read and passed
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 3349

Summary of Bill: SR 3349 (2026) — Portuguese American Heritage Month in Rhode Island

Purpose and Intent

  • Proclaims and acknowledges June 2026 as “Portuguese American Heritage Month” in the State of Rhode Island.
  • Recognizes the historical and ongoing contributions of Portuguese Americans to Rhode Island’s culture, economy, and social fabric.

Key Provisions

  • Declaration: The Rhode Island Senate formally designates June 2026 as Portuguese American Heritage Month.
  • Rationale: Highlights the substantial Portuguese American population in Rhode Island and their roles in various sectors (cultural, educational, political, economic, and social life).
  • Cultural Context: References ongoing Portuguese American cultural events (e.g., Rhode Island Day of Portugal Heritage Festival and church/club festivals) that celebrate Portuguese language, music, dance, food, and traditions.
  • Historical Significance: Notes landmarks and institutions associated with Portuguese American heritage, including:
    • Our Lady of the Rosary Church (Providence) as the oldest continuously active Portuguese American church in the U.S.
    • Historic figures and sites connected to early Portuguese Jewish leaders and the Touro Synagogue (Newport).
    • The Portuguese Discovery Monument at Brenton Point, illustrating nautical heritage.
  • Observance and Recognition: Calls for official recognition of the month and public acknowledgment of heritage contributions.

Administrative and Procedural Details

  • Transmission of Certification: Directs the Secretary of State to transmit certified copies of the resolution to:
    • Governor Daniel McKee
    • The Prime Minister and President of Portugal
    • The Vice-Consulate of Portugal in Providence
    • The Rhode Island Day of Portugal nonprofit organization
  • Status: A Senate resolution, recommended for immediate consideration by the Senate.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • Geographic/Demographic Focus: Rhode Island state government and residents, with emphasis on the Portuguese American community.
  • Cultural and Civic Impact: Promotes awareness and celebration of Portuguese American heritage during June 2026, potentially guiding state-sponsored or community-led commemorations and events.
  • Diplomatic/Tertiary Effects: Facilitates recognition and goodwill from Portuguese and Portuguese-American organizations through official communications.

Timeline and Procedural Considerations

  • Effective Date: The resolution designates June 2026 as Portuguese American Heritage Month.
  • Next Steps: Requires transmission of copies to specified officials and organizations for formal acknowledgment and possible coordinated activities during the designated month.

Policy and Impact Notes

  • This is primarily a ceremonial/recognition measure rather than a substantive regulatory or fiscal policy.
  • It aims to elevate visibility of a specific cultural community and strengthen cultural ties between Rhode Island and Portugal.
  • No direct fiscal allocations or regulatory changes are outlined in the bill text provided.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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