Politics & Government

East Providence Partners With Welcoming Rhode Island

Rhode Island is one of 19 states to join up with Welcoming America.

It's on the books. East Providence and Cranston are committed to respecting their roots and fostering cultural appreciation. Both communities have partnered with the Welcoming Rhode Island initiative spearheaded by the Rhode Island International Institute.

Deborah Gonzalez, a first generation Brazilian-American and East Providence resident, told an audience attending Tuesday's city council meeting that East Providence is a historically a haven for immigrants. About 31 percent of the city's population registered Portuguese decent, according to '90s U.S. Census statistics.

"Welcoming America is the national, grassroots-driven collaborative that works to promote mutual respect and cooperation between foreign-born and U.S.-born Americans," she said.

Find out what's happening in East Providencewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Gov. Lincoln Chafee is the honorary chairman of Welcoming Rhode Island.

Affirmative Action Officer Elmer Pina requested the resolution that states, "The city of East Providence is committed to continue building a neighborly and welcoming atmosphere in our community whete all are welcome, accepted and appreciated."

Find out what's happening in East Providencewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Councilors unanimously passed the resolution.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here