CONTACT: Ed Graves egraves@provcomlib.org 401-272-3780
“VIRTUAL CAPE VERDE” AT ROCHAMBEAU CAPTURES SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND CULTURE OF CAPE VERDE ISLANDS
It’s said that anywhere the sea touches land, or there is a port, there’s a Cape Verdean
PROVIDENCE, R.I. - More than 20,000 people in Rhode Island are of Cape Verdean origin. Located off the coast of Africa and colonized by the Portuguese, many hard-working seamen from Cape Verde made their way to Rhode Island and Massachusetts on whaling ships, establishing vibrant local communities in Providence, Pawtucket and New Bedford. “Virtual Cape Verde: History, People, Culture” presents a virtual visit to the island nation through exhibitions, photographs, lectures, music, theater, spoken word, moving images and food.
Saturday, May 3, 2014 12:30p.m.-5:30p.m. Virtual Cape Verde: History-Then and Now Explore the rich history of Cape Verde from the days of old to the global citizens of a vibrant 21st century community.
Saturday, May 10,2014 12:30p.m.-5:30p.m. Virtual Cape Verde: Immigration and the Atlantic Legacy Experts tell the story of the Cape Verdean diaspora, from the old community in the Fox Point section of Providence to recently arrived immigrants in Pawtucket. Whaling ships, sea captains, Jewish migration and more!
Saturday, May 17, 2014 12:30p.m.-5:30p.m. Virtual Cape Verde: Elements of Cape Verdean Culture Discover the language and music of Cape Verde with an afternoon of discussion, music, performance and poetry. Sample Cape Verdean food!
Saturday, May 31, 2014 12:30p.m.-5:30p.m. Virtual Cape Verde: Reconnecting Your Roots Cape Verdean genealogy is a five hundred year long transatlantic journey that spans the globe. Learn how Cape Verdeans are exploring their past, tracing their roots and preserving their heritage.
The series was produced by Virtual Cape Verde Creator and Director Lucy Rose, Claire Andrade-Watkins, PhD, Program & Media Consultant and Romana Ramos, Program & Cultural Consultant, with exhibits of historical artifacts from the Cape Verdean Museum, East Providence, R.I. and C.A.C.D. (Cape Verdean American Community Development) Pawtucket, R.I. It was made possible through generous support from the Providence Community Library and pro bono, in-kind support from the Program Director, Consultants, guest speakers, artists and collaborating community institutions.
“Virtual Cape Verde: History, People, Culture” will be held at Rochambeau Library, 708 Hope Street, Providence 02906 (Tel: 401-272-3780). Free admission. Visit www.provcomlib.org/capeverde for the full program and information about speakers and performers.
