Cape Verdean Recognition Parade Committee

The mission of the Cape Verdean Recognition Committee, a non-profit organization, is to foster the recognition and celebrate the contributions of Cape Verdean Americans; and promote the educational development of Cape Verdeans in the Greater New Bedford area. The primary vehicles for carrying out the mission will be through the activities and initiatives of the Cape Verdean Recognition Parade Committee and the Cape Verdean Recognition Scholarship Committee.

The Cape Verdean Recognition Committee was established in 1972 under the name of the Cape Verdean Census Committee. In 1973, the name was changed to its present name. The committee was organized by a volunteer group composed of members of the Cape Verdean American Veterans Association, Inc., its Auxiliary, and interested and dedicated people from the community. The purpose, which continues today, is to celebrate and to recognize the culture and history of the Cape Verdean people in the United States.

Since its inception, the committee has held the Cape Verdean Recognition Parade during the first weekend in July. The first organizers were Edwin L. Livramento and Henry J. Barros. The Scholarship Committee was established in 1959 and officially known as the Verdean Veterans Memorial Educational Aid Committee and its first chairman was Manuel A. Lopes and executive secretary was John Britto. The name was changed in 1973. The Scholarship continues to be open to all graduating seniors from Greater New Bedford regardless of race, color or creed. The Scholarships are awarded on the basis of need, scholastic standing, extracurricular activities and leadership skills.