[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 119 (Thursday, July 10, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E661]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE CAPE VERDEAN INDEPENDENCE BIKE RIDE AND THE 50TH 
                ANNIVERSARY OF CAPE VERDE'S INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 10, 2025

  Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Cape 
Verdean Independence Bike Ride as community members from across 
Southeastern Massachusetts and the country gather in New Bedford to 
celebrate the 50th anniversary of Cape Verde's independence.
  This deeply meaningful and historic ride not only commemorates Cape 
Verde's independence from Portugal on July 5, 1975, but also celebrates 
the enduring strength, pride, and unity of the Cape Verdean-American 
community in New Bedford and beyond. The annual ride is a powerful 
intergenerational tradition, bringing families and neighbors together 
on a shared journey of remembrance, cultural pride, and collective joy.
  The Cape Verdean Independence Bike Ride was established by the Cape 
Verdean Universal Development Association (CUDA), a grassroots 
organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Cape Verdean 
culture. Under the leadership of Carleen Cordwell, then-President of 
CUDA, along with support from early advocates David Andrade and 
Benjamin ``Flip'' Rose and local organizations such as ``The Bomb,'' 
the ride first began as a fundraiser and community event in 1979.
  Together, the group envisioned the event being more than a bike ride. 
They imagined a celebration of identity and resilience; an act of 
cultural preservation rooted in community involvement. That vision took 
shape with the help of the ride's dedicated founding members, including 
Carleen Cordwell, Diana Duarte, Jeanne Depina, Corday Faith Rivera, 
Buddy Andrade, Penny Santos, Susan Costa, Carol Pimental, Marilyn 
Halter, Liz DiCarlo, Jim Ryan, Lolly Pina, June Pina, Marie Monteiro, 
Debbie Santos Hudson, Jeanne Costa, Jackie Centeio, Bobby Grace, and 
Kenny Riberio. Their leadership and dedication laid the foundation for 
a tradition that continues to flourish today.
  The bike route guides participants throughout New Bedford's historic 
West End and South End neighborhoods. These neighborhoods, with deep 
Cape Verdean roots, stand as testaments to the perseverance, 
contributions, and cultural richness of Cape Verdean-Americans. Riders 
of all ages choose between a 13-mile journey through the city or a 
three-mile route beginning at Monte's Park, named in honor of Private 
First-Class Joseph J. Monte, the first Cape Verdean-American to receive 
the Purple Heart Medal.
  The annual bike ride fosters reflection on the struggles and triumphs 
of Cape Verdean independence, while recognizing the community's ongoing 
contributions to the cultural fabric of New Bedford and the nation. The 
ride ends at Hazelwood Park with a celebration of Cape Verdean culture, 
featuring traditional food, music, games, and art. From the soulful 
sounds of morna and lively coladeira music to the sharing of culinary 
traditions passed down by generations, the event is a proud expression 
of Cape Verdean heritage. Through movement, storytelling, and music, 
the Cape Verdean Independence Bike Ride preserves cultural memory, 
honors historical milestones, and promotes social connections across 
generations.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the 50th 
anniversary of Cape Verde's independence and commending all who have 
participated in and organized the Cape Verdean Independence Bike Ride 
for their enduring contributions to preserving cultural heritage and 
improving community life.

                          ____________________