Monday, 23rd December 2024

Trump proclaims National Caribbean-American Heritage Month

'Caribbean Americans help make America more prosperous and secure' – Trump

Thursday, 1st June 2017

The president of the United States yesterday issued his first National Caribbean-American Heritage Month proclamation.

The move came on the 11th anniversary of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month (CAHM).

Despite riding to power on a wave of anti-immigration and “America First”, Donald Trump took this opportunity to praise Caribbean in America.

“We are grateful for the culture Caribbean Americans have shared with our Nation and the many contributions they have made to our society,’ the 45th president said.

“Every day, Caribbean Americans help make America more prosperous and secure. Our nation is particularly grateful to the many Caribbean Americans who have served and are currently serving in our armed forces, protecting our nation, and promoting freedom and peace around the world.

“Today, more than four million Caribbean Americans live in the United States and continue to contribute to a vibrant culture that enriches our nation.”

He paid tribute to Alexander Hamilton, who Trump said came from poverty in Nevis to become “a key contributor to our Constitution and the first Secretary of the Treasury, helping to establish our modern financial system and to create the United States Coast Guard.”

The proclamation of CAHM has been an annual tradition since it was signed into law by President George W Bush in 2006.