Rhode Island Hosts Celebration for Cape Verde’s Independence

News Summary

Rhode Island will commemorate the 50th anniversary of Cape Verde’s independence with a special celebration at Rhode Island College. The event will feature a keynote address from the General Consul of Cabo Verde, an induction ceremony for the Phi Lambda Beta Honor Society, and a recognition of outstanding students with scholarships. Presented in multiple languages, the celebration aims to bring the community together to reflect on Cape Verde’s journey and achievements over the past five decades.

Rhode Island Celebrates Cape Verde’s 50th Anniversary of Independence

Rhode Island will host a special celebration to honor the 50th anniversary of Cape Verde’s independence on April 25, 2025. The event, titled “Cabo Verde: Reflections on 50 Years of Nationhood,” will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Gaige Hall 200 at Rhode Island College (RIC). This occasion commemorates Cabo Verde’s full independence from Portugal, which was officially recognized on July 5, 1975.

Octávio B. Gomes, the General Consul of Cabo Verde in Boston, will deliver a keynote address to attendees. His speech will provide insight into the journey of Cape Verde from colonial rule to its current status as an independent nation. The event is organized by the Institute for Portuguese and Lusophone World Studies at Rhode Island College, reflecting the institution’s commitment to celebrating cultural heritage and academic excellence.

In addition to the keynote address, the Sigma Chapter of the Phi Lambda Beta National Collegiate Portuguese Honor Society will conduct an induction ceremony for new active and honorary members. The Institute will also recognize outstanding students by announcing the recipients of the 2025 John A. and Mary V. Lima Memorial Scholarship in Portuguese Studies and the Lema-Fernandes Study Abroad Scholarship.

The celebration will be presented in a multilingual format, accommodating attendees in Portuguese, Cape Verdean Creole, and English, ensuring inclusivity for all participants. Light refreshments will also be provided to enhance the celebratory atmosphere.

Background on Cape Verde’s Independence

Cape Verde, an archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa, achieved full independence from Portugal after a lengthy and determined struggle. The African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cabo Verde (PAIGC) played a pivotal role in this movement, advocating for self-determination and national sovereignty. The independence was formally recognized following a military coup in Portugal on April 25, 1974, which led to negotiations with nationalist factions.

Since gaining independence, Cape Verde has celebrated the effective governance and leadership of its first president, Aristides Pereira, and prime minister, Pedro Pires. Over the past fifty years, the nation has made significant strides in various areas, including education, health, and governance, contributing to its recognition as a model of democracy in Africa.

The upcoming event at Rhode Island College aims to not only commemorate this significant milestone in Cabo Verde’s history but also to celebrate the achievements the nation has made over the last five decades. It presents an opportunity for the Cape Verdean community in Rhode Island and supporters of Cape Verdean culture to come together in recognition of their shared history and aspirations for the future.

The Rhode Island community is invited to participate in this celebratory event, reflecting on Cape Verde’s legacy and looking ahead at its promises for continued growth and development. As the nation steps into its next fifty years, the event will serve as a reminder of the resilience and spirit of Cape Verdean people both at home and in the diaspora.

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Additional Resources

• Herald News: Consul General of Cabo Verde Reflects on 50 Years of Nationhood
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Cabo Verde Independence Struggle
• Cape Cod Times: Cape Verdean Prime Minister Tours Falmouth Museum
• Google Search: Cabo Verde independence
• Turn to 10: Providence’s 49th Annual Cape Verdean Independence Festival
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Search for Cabo Verde