The President of the Government called for greater involvement of emigrant communities in their host countries, stressing that this political, social, economic and cultural participation may be also a way for Azorean emigrants to help the Azores.
"I call for, again and again, to the increasingly effective integration of emigrants into host communities, participating in the political, social, economic and cultural life of host communities. This is also a good way to help the Azores," said Vasco Cordeiro. The President of the Government spoke at a meeting with 600 people that marked the end of the Holy Spirit Festivities of New England in which he participated as guest of honour.
For the President of the Government, the integration of Azorean emigrants into the host communities, which they help developing with their work and dedication, is "one of the most valuable assets the Region has."
"It is important to be aware of it so that each emigrant may be ambassador of the Azores here in New England or in any other place, demonstrating their work capacity, their commitment, honesty and pride in being good professionals,” said the President of the Government.
In his speech, the President of the Government stressed that this is important not only to the host communities, but also to the Azores, as each emigrant represents the image and mirror of the Azores abroad.
Vasco Cordeiro said that the Azores of today are a reason of pride to the Azoreans living in the archipelago, "but they should also be a motive of pride to our communities for what that those who stayed in the archipelago have managed to accomplish."
With regard to the Holy Spirit Festivities, which took place during the weekend, the President of the Government highlighted their importance for the preservation of Azorean identity and traditions. However, they cannot just be - and they are not - a moment to reflect on the past.
"They must be also an opportunity that allows communities, in partnership with the Azores and their representative institutions, to define the best way how emigrants may become the best possible citizens in their host communities, while bringing the name of the Azores and Portugal to prominence.
"The importance of this presence goes beyond than a mere manifestation of Azorean traditions."In fact, they bring added value to our country and do not diminish it in any aspect," said the President of the Government.
In addition to contacting with various institutions of the Diaspora, Vasco Cordeiro attended last Sunday the Solemn Coronation Mass at the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Fall River and, later, took part in the Coronation Procession.