The Regional Director for Communities praised in Swansea, USA, the emigrant Azorean communities, stressing that, "despite living far away from the archipelago, they have contributed to the assertion of the Azores in the world."

Paulo Teves spoke Monday at the closing session of the 29th Holy Spirit Festivities of New England. The government official stressed the need to maintain the tradition that was passed down by the first generation of emigrants. However, he stressed that it is "necessary to promote an effective adaptation to the new community dynamics and increasingly promote the participation of youth of Azorean-descent."

"After 29 years of existence, the unifying role that these festivities play in the USA is undeniable," the Regional Director said, adding that these celebrations are "deeply rooted in the community, being also a moment that brings together Azorean citizens and Azorean descendants as well as all those who acknowledge the role of the Region in this country."

"This recognition is visible by the considerable participation of many people who do not share the Azorean identity, but who experience this significant manifestation of 'Azoreanity," said the government official.

According to the Regional Director for Communities, the partnership of the Azorean Government with the Holy Spirit Festivities of New England based not only on the preservation of the Azorean identity, but also "on the comprehensive role they play in the dissemination of the Region."

"In addition to the common religious and cultural identity, the cult of the Holy Spirit shapes the identity of the Azorean people and is part of our history," said Paulo Teves.
In this regard, the government official stressed that the newly released Holy Spirit Festivities Route - Azores/Communities also contributes to the dissemination of this religious and cultural among the Azorean People living in the archipelago as well as among those who live in the Diaspora.

"The cult of the Holy Spirit was brought by the first settlers. It became deeply rooted in the archipelago and set off with our emigrants. After several centuries, it remains dynamic and very much alive in our soul, guiding our way of being in society," stressed the government official.

On Monday, Paul Teves also met with the Mayor of Fall River, Sam Sutter, to whom he thanked the appreciation of the U.S. city towards the Azores and the support to the organisation of various events, such as the Holy Spirit Festivities of New England.

 Today, the last day of the visit to the US East Coast, the Regional Director for Communities will meet with the Mayors of New Bedford, Jonathan Mitchell, and Lowell, Rodney Elliott; both cities host a considerable Azorean community.