Brockton – (Massachusetts) – Today, the Cape Verdean Association of Brockton celebrated its 10th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day event at Venue 727. Under the theme “To Heed the Call on MLK Day,” the event brought together community members, elected officials, and local leaders to honor Dr. King’s legacy in Brockton, the only Black-majority city in New England. With a population of 105,643 (US Census 2020), the City of Brockton is a vibrant hub of diversity in Southeastern Massachusetts, home to residents representing 81 nationalities.
The celebration began with a moving performance by the Teens Girls Group OF the Cape Verdean Association, who captivated the audience with four powerful poems. Their words reflected the strength, resilience, and hope of a generation inspired by Dr. King’s dream.
Several elected officials addressed the audience throughout the event, including Mayor Robert Sullivan, State Representative Michelle DuBois, Phil Griffin, Ward 3 City Councillor, Tony Rodrigues, Vice-Chair of the School Committee and Joe Miranda, President of the Cape Verdean Association. Each reflected on the significance of the day, emphasizing the need to “continue the fight for equality FOR ALL”.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Jemadari Kamara of the Africana Studies Department at UMASS-Boston. With his depth of knowledge and connection to the struggles for justice, Professor Kamara left the audience inspired and energized to take action in their community.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Moises Rodrigues, Executive Director of the Cape Verdean Association and former Mayor of Brockton. He underscored the significance of unity and the collective responsibility to continue Dr. King’s legacy. Also in attendance were Senator Michael Brady and Marline Amedee, CEO and President of Haitian-Community Partners.
The event was eloquently emceed by Angela G. Rosa, who did a phenomenal job finding the proper words to introduce each speaker while tying their messages to the theme of the day “To Heed the Call on MLK Day,”. Her skillful hosting style added a cohesive and inspiring tone to the celebration.