SATA International and the Regional Department for the Communities organized a visit to the Azores for the first Azorean emigrants in Canada, which took place between November 15 and 22, 2003.

The eight pioneers were accompanied by their wives: António do Couto, 83, from S. Pedro Nordestino, Nordeste, Armando Vieira, 73, Água de Pau, Lagoa, Manuel Pavão, 74, Candelária, Ponta Delgada, Jaime Barbosa, 73, Nordeste, Afonso Tavares, 74, from Rabo de Peixe, Ribeira Grande, Manuel Arruda, 74, Bretanha, Ponta Delgada, João Martins, 74, from S. Brás, Ribeira Grande and Manuel Vieira, 74, Água de Pau, Lagoa.

The program included the opening of a photographic and documental display about the first years of emigration to Canada.

The President of the Regional Government of the Azores paid his tribute to the pioneers in Sant’Ana Palace, S. Miguel Island, as well as the President of the Regional Legislative Assembly, on Faial Island. The pioneers also had the opportunity to watch some folklore groups, singing chorus and local carnival dances on Terceira Island.