Trump Proclaims June as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month

Caribbean-American Heritage Month — carryonfriends.com

President Donald J. Trump Proclaims June as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month

On May 31, 2018, President Donald J. Trump issued a Proclamation designating June 2018 as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Throughout the month, Caribbean Americans and friends of the Caribbean are encouraged to celebrate the rich history, heritage and significant contributions of Caribbean Americans to our great Nation.

The presidential proclamation reads in part:

“Caribbean Americans embody the American spirit, with their talents and hard work contributing greatly to America’s economy.  They protect our citizens as law enforcement officers, serve our communities as public officials, and mentor our country’s young people as educators.  Through their tremendous athleticism and determination, they have brought pride to the hearts of the American people as members of numerous U.S. Olympic teams.  Their leadership and resolve have made incredible contributions to our society.

“As trailblazers, Americans with Caribbean roots have sewn their own unique thread into the fabric of our Nation.  Dr. William Thornton, a native of the British Virgin Islands, designed the United States Capitol and is generally considered the first “Architect of the Capitol”.  Jean Baptiste du Sable, the first permanent resident of Chicago, was born in Haiti.  Widely recognized as the “Founder of Chicago,” his prosperous trade settlement has become one of the most iconic cities in the world.

“This month, we acknowledge the numerous contributions of Caribbean Americans to our Nation, including those of the more than 4 million Caribbean Americans who live in the United States today.  We are also deeply grateful to the many Caribbean Americans who have served or are currently serving our country as members of our Armed Forces.”

President George W. Bush issued the first Proclamation on June 6, 2006, following two years of active campaigning by the Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS), in partnership with the office of Congresswoman Barbara Lee. The Presidential Proclamation is a significant milestone for the Caribbean Region and President Trump has continued the designation.

This June, join the Caribbean Diaspora in honor, recognition and celebration of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month.