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I am deeply honored and privileged to serve as President for a second term and lead the 48th Annual Day of Portugal celebrations in Rhode Island in 2025. My heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who has supported RI Day of Portugal—what an incredible year it has been, showing the strength of what we can achieve when we work together.

 

As we reflect on 2024, I want to express my gratitude to the leaders who came before us—not only within this organization but across the broader Portuguese-American community. Their dedication to keeping our culture alive amidst the challenges of preserving our vibrant heritage has been nothing short of inspiring.

 

For 48 years, the RI Day of Portugal organization has brought the Portuguese-American community together to celebrate and preserve our rich heritage, language, and culture here in this beautiful state. Portuguese roots in Rhode Island and New England stretch back centuries, with our ancestors helping to shape this great nation. Today, our mission remains one of unity—sharing our vibrant culture and strengthening the ties between Portugal and the Portuguese-American community.

 

As President, I am committed to introducing new ideas, initiatives, and strategies to build upon the exceptional foundation laid by past leaders. Together with our hardworking and dynamic committee, we aim to inspire vision, foster growth, and ensure that future generations feel a deep connection to their heritage and take pride in assuming leadership roles within this organization.

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Only together can we continue creating a dynamic and inclusive community that honors our roots and teaches our children to value and embrace their Portuguese heritage. Together, we aspire to be better and celebrate our "Portugalidade"—our unique identity—by demonstrating our values, resilience, and perseverance. As Americans, we are privileged to express our heritage freely and thrive in a land of opportunity. It is our responsibility to honor this privilege by proudly sharing our culture and uniting as a community.

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This year’s celebration begins on June 6 with the Day of Portugal Opening Ceremony at the Rhode Island State House, followed by a reception. The weekend’s main events include the Portuguese Heritage Festival, or "Arraial," on June 7 and June 8 at our exciting new location: 195 District Park. The festival will feature live entertainment, traditional and modern Portuguese cuisine, and family-friendly activities. On Sunday June 8th the Day of Portugal Parade will kick off at 2 p.m. from the Rhode Island State House (Smith Street side) and culminate with a torch procession at sunset, symbolizing our enduring pride and unity.

To all clubs, associations, organizations, and friends, I humbly seek your support as volunteers and partners. Together, we can make the 48th-anniversary celebration one to remember as we raise our flags high and pave the way for future generations.

Let us celebrate, honor, and preserve our Portuguese history, language, and culture—ensuring a bright and proud future for our community.

Viva Portugal! And God Bless America!

James "Jimmy Jam" Ferreira
President, RI Day of Portugal 2025