State Sen. Marc R. Pacheco, D-Taunton, Senate chairman of the Portuguese American Legislative Caucus, co-hosted the 30th annual Heritage Day of Portugal with Co-Chairman state Rep. Antonio F. D. Cabral, D-New Bedford, on Tuesday. The celebration that attracted a chamber full of state legislators, officials, community leaders and residents to honor Portuguese-Americans and their advocates in Massachusetts and across the country.
The statewide event recognizes individuals of Portuguese heritage who have made contributions to make Massachusetts a better place, as well as Portuguese community advocates, regardless of ethnicity, who have helped Portuguese people advance in the state or across the United States.
Portuguese Ambassador Nuno Brito received the Portuguese American Legislative Caucus’ guest of honor award. Former state Rep. Robert Correia, who founded the first Heritage Day of Portugal in 1985, received the Founder’s Award to a standing ovation from attendees. The caucus also honored sixteen people who have excelled or served as role models to Portuguese communities with Portuguese Heritage Awards.