The program commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Azorean Emigration Museum began on September 9 with the opening of the commemorative exhibition “20 Years of the Azorean Emigration Museum.” Under the theme “20 years of stored emotions,” the Azorean Emigration Museum is celebrating 20 years of activity with a varied program until September 30.

According to a press release sent by the Ribeira Grande City Council, the opening ceremony featured the presentation of Pedro Almeida Maia’s book, “Condenação – A história de um gangster açoriano na América” (Condemnation – The story of an Azorean gangster in America). At the start of the celebrations, there was also time for a lecture by Onésimo Teotónio d’Almeida on “Museums, Memory – Memories and Forgetfulness,” for the testimony of the mayors whose terms of office have taken place since the museum’s foundation, and also for a performance, in the form of a commemorative concert, by the Portuguese-Azorean artist Frank Rod Jr.

The remaining activities will take place during the month of September, on the 23rd and 30th. On the first of these two days, there will be another presentation of a book related to the theme “Monuments to the Emigrant” by Daniel Bastos and Luís Carvalhido, which will be presented by Onésimo d’Almeida. The photographic exhibition “Monuments to the Emigrant” will also be inaugurated, and a commemorative concert by Clayton and Cátia can be attended. On September 30, Eduardo Medeiros’ work, “175 Years of Portuguese Women in Bermuda,” will be presented, and the exhibition “Azores-Bermuda” and a concert by João Moniz will also be inaugurated.

The Ribeira Grande local authority also points out that every Saturday, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., there will be children’s and family entertainment with the “Little Travelers” initiative.

Founded on September 9, 2005, the Azorean Emigration Museum has played a role in preserving the memory and history of the Azorean people and migratory flows that began in the 18th century and became particularly significant in the mid-20th century. The vast collection includes pieces that symbolize and portray the search for new opportunities in new lands.

In Diário da Lagoa

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