June 01, 2021

Congresswoman Barbara Lee Introduces Legislation Recognizing the Significance of National Caribbean American Heritage Month

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13) today reintroduced a Congressional Resolution recognizing the significance of National Caribbean American Heritage Month, which is celebrated every year beginning June 1st.

Some prominent figures celebrated in the text of the resolution include Vice President Kamala Harris, Former Secretary of State Colin Powell, and famous entertainer Harry Belafonte.

“Throughout our history, Caribbean Americans have served the country and contributed to the heritage of the United States through the arts, science, education, business, sports, military, and government,” said Congresswoman Lee. 

“Millions have emigrated from the Caribbean to the United States since before our nation’s founding. Congress should continue to recognize the important contributions of Caribbean Americans to our nation’s history, and their role in our nation’s future. I’m proud to lead this effort to recognize June, National Caribbean American Heritage Month, and its significance in this country.”

Congresswoman Lee first led the effort to establish June as Caribbean American Heritage Month over a decade ago. In June 2005, the House of Representatives unanimously adopted H. Con. Res. 71, authored by Congresswoman Lee, recognizing the significance of Caribbean people and their descendants in the history and culture of the United States.  On February 14, 2006, the resolution passed the Senate, culminating a two-year, bipartisan and bicameral effort. President Bush then issued a proclamation declaring June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month.

To read the full text of the legislation, click here.