Azores immigrants maintain strong ties to homeland
Summary and headline written by AI from the source article. How we work
The Portuguese and Luso-American community in Tulare, California continues to feel a strong connection to the Azores islands, and actively preserves Azorean traditions.
Fátima Martins, the mayor of Angra do Heroísmo, Azores, stated this while visiting California to celebrate 60 years of a sister city relationship between Tulare and her city. Martins expressed gratitude to Azorean immigrants for maintaining traditions in their new home and passing them on to future generations.
Tulare is home to over 4,500 residents of Portuguese descent, most originating from Terceira Island, and is celebrating six decades of partnership with Angra do Heroísmo, the oldest such relationship between a municipality in the Azores and an American city. Organizers are encouraging participation in free public celebrations, including concerts by the Azorean Wave Jazz Ensemble. The community’s connection extends beyond cultural preservation.
Following the 1980 earthquake in Angra do Heroísmo, Azorean immigrants provided crucial support for the city’s recovery, and many continue to invest in tourism within the Azores. Martins also noted difficulties with travel between California and Terceira Island, hoping for more affordable and frequent flights to allow easier visits for the diaspora. The city of Angra do Heroísmo recently dedicated a day of its Sanjoaninas festival to the diaspora, with groups traveling from the United States to participate.
