The Government of the Azores promotes the national premiere of the documentary "American in California" by director of Azorean descent Nelson Ponta Garça at Arquipélago - Contemporary Arts Centre in Ribeira Grande on 18 July.

This documentary, which had the support of the Regional Directorate for Communities, depicts the contribution of Portuguese emigration, made mostly by Azoreans, for the development of the state of California. It is primarily focused on the daily life and experiences of the Portuguese community residing in that state.

The documentary examines various personal stories and the success achieved by many emigrants and Azorean descendants in areas such as technology, agriculture, the film industry, politics, wine production and fisheries, among others.

The author and director, Nelson Ponta Garça, a native of Los Gatos, California, is the son of Azorean emigrants from São Jorge Island, where he also lived. He also attended the Universidade Nova de Lisboa (New University of Lisbon), WestValley College - California and the Berkeley College of Music. He holds a Master Certification in music for films and TV.

With this initiative, the Cabinet of the Under Secretary of the Presidency for External Relations, through the Regional Directorate for Communities, aims to make the Region better acquainted with the importance of Azorean communities in the Diaspora, disseminating the stories and successful migratory paths in the state of California.

The admission to the opening session of this documentary is free, but is limited to the room capacity. Hence, we suggest that those who interested should collect their tickets in advance. They are available at the premises of the Regional Directorate for Communities on weekdays from 9 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2 PM to 5:30 PM; Arquipélago - Contemporary Arts Centre, from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM; RIAC Office at Parque Atlântico Shopping Centre, from Monday to Sunday from 10 AM to 10 PM.

This documentary will then exhibited on several islands of the Azores, namely in S. Roque do Pico (August 1), Horta (August 4), Praia da Vitória (August 8), Santa Cruz da Graciosa (August 10) and Velas (August 12). It will also be exhibited in Rosais, São Jorge Island, on August 15.