CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE LEADER OF THE AZOREAN PARLIAMENT


“We need to continue working towards a fairer, more inclusive and sustainable region, where no one is left behind,” said the president of the Azorean parliament in his Christmas message.
“The spirit of sharing and generosity of Christmas should inspire us to strengthen the ties between our islands and communities, both in the archipelago and in the diaspora, and to value and preserve the Azores as the common home that unites us,” reads the message published by Luís Garcia.
After stating that “we are more than an archipelago in the Atlantic”, the leader of the regional parliament notes in his text that “we are a people of courage and resilience, united by the ocean and the strength of our land. We are also a people without borders, with Azoreans scattered around the world, who take with them our culture, our values and the nostalgia that keeps them strongly attached to their homeland”.
“I would therefore like to say a word of thanks to all the Azoreans who, through their daily efforts, make a difference: to the families who educate and care, to the young people who dream and create, to the workers and entrepreneurs who innovate and make things happen, and to all those who dedicate their time to helping others beyond this festive season,” says Luís Garcia.
The president of parliament also addressed emigrants with “a special word.” “Even far away, you are still an essential part of us. Your dedication to keeping our traditions alive and projecting the name of the Azores across borders reinforces our indelible bond,” he said.
“The message of hope and renewal that this season brings reminds us that, despite adversity, there is always room for solidarity, dialogue and commitment to a better future,” reads Garcia’s text, which recalls the ”global challenges such as climate change, armed conflicts and humanitarian crises, which require urgent and collaborative responses.”
“In the Azores, in the heart of the Atlantic, we particularly feel the importance of preserving our identity and guaranteeing the well-being of our communities, while contributing to global solutions with responsibility and unity,” concludes the president of the Azorean Parliament.

In Diário Insular, José Lourenço-director

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.