[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 10887]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF CABO VERDE'S INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 7, 2015

  Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in proud recognition of the 
historic 40th Anniversary of Cabo Verdean independence.
  The history of Cabo Verde is as intricate and vibrant as the people 
themselves. First founded by the adventuresome European explorers of 
the fifteenth century, Cabo Verde became a critical trading post on the 
route from the coasts of Africa and bustling Mediterranean ports to the 
newly discovered lands across the Atlantic. The diverse residents of 
Cabo Verde lived under Portuguese rule until the establishment of a 
transitional government and first election of a National Assembly in 
1975. To date, July 5 remains celebrated by the residents of Cabo Verde 
and their growing diaspora overseas as a day of independence.
  I have the privilege of representing communities in Southeastern 
Massachusetts that boast strong ties to Cabo Verde and hosts the 
highest concentration of Cabo Verdean-Americans in the United States. 
The Cities of New Bedford and Fall River, in addition to Brockton and 
Boston, are some of the largest communities of Cabo Verdean descent in 
the country.
  The Cabo Verdean community has played an integral role in molding the 
rich culture of Massachusetts as we know it today. This influence dates 
back to the height of the whaling industry in the 18th century, during 
which time Cabo Verdeans were universally respected for their skills as 
seamen and whale hunters--recognized across the world as honest, hard 
workers. They continue to uphold that reputation in Massachusetts, 
where many Cabo Verdean-Americans continue to work in the historic 
fishing and cranberry industries.
  Today, the scenic archipelago of Cabo Verde enjoys political 
stability, democratic rule and substantial economic growth.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring the 40th anniversary of 
Cabo Verde's independence and in recognizing the country's 
irreplaceable role in the international community.

                          ____________________