Rep. Sena congratulates Linda Vieira of Acton on earning Portuguese Heritage Award
BOSTON – Representative Dan Sena (37th Middlesex) presented Linda Vieira of Acton with a Portuguese Heritage Award at the Heritage Day of Portugal celebration, hosted on June 11 by the Massachusetts Portuguese American Legislative Caucus in the House of Representative’s Chamber.
Vieira, a resident of Acton and dedicated advocate for her community, earned this award through her efforts to better her community. As a member of the Acton Democratic Town Committee and coordinator of voter activism, member of the Indivisible Acton Area Serving Committee, trustee for West Acton Citizens’ Library, and countless roles on campaigns, Linda Vieira’s work impacts many. Much of Linda Vieira’s activism focuses on the right to chose, and she plans events, manages campaigns, and advocates tirelessly to battle anti-abortion efforts across the country.
Rep. Dan Sena nominated Linda Vieira because of her strong legacy in the community and her Portuguese heritage. Linda Vieira’s paternal grandparents immigrated from the Azores, and she grew up in New Bedford attending the annual Portuguese Feast.
“I am proud of the work that Linda has done for our community, and I felt honored to present her with this award,” Rep. Dan Sena said. “Linda is a shining example of how individuals in our community can impact our policies.
"Growing up in a Portuguese community taught me the value of hard work and education. Hearing about the contributions of the other nominees was inspiring and we were treated to Portuguese food and music after the ceremony,” said Linda Vieira. “I am grateful to Representative Sena for acknowledging my contributions to Acton and Massachusetts."
Heritage Day of Portugal is a statewide event recognizes individuals in Portuguese-speaking communities who help to preserve their cultural traditions while giving back to their communities and encouraging future generations to appreciate and love their heritage. For the 40th annual celebration, the Portuguese American Legislative Caucus Guest of Honor and keynote speaker was Mayor Pedro Nascimento Cabral, Mayor of the City of Ponta Delgada, Azores.
"Heritage Day of Portugal is an opportunity to celebrate our heritage and the contributions of the Portuguese-speaking community in Massachusetts," said Representative Antonio Cabral, House Chair of the Portuguese American Legislative Caucus. “It’s incredible to think that we have been able to honor Portuguese-speaking leaders for 40 years. It is an honor to celebrate our heritage by recognizing the contributions of each awardee and to welcome Mayor Pedro Nascimento Cabral, Mayor of Ponta Delgada, Azores.”
“Heritage Day of Portugal is an incredible opportunity to celebrate the Portugese Diaspora and the special place that Portuguese-speaking communities have here in Massachusetts,” said Rep. Sena. “I look forward to this event every year as a way to share my Brazilian culture!”
For more information about Heritage Day of Portugal or Linda Vieira, contact Rep. Sena’s office at 774-277-5489.
