The Canadian Minister of Official Languages, Culture, and Identity, Steven Guilbeault, released a statement recognizing “the work, determination, and values” of Portuguese Canadians, stating that Portuguese contributions have “helped shape modern Canada” and are now represented in fields such as education, politics, finance, culture, and community action.
Established federally in 2017, Portuguese Heritage Month honors the history and contributions of the Portuguese Canadian community and coincides with Portugal Day, Camões Day, and the Day of the Portuguese Communities, celebrated on June 10.
Throughout the month, dozens of initiatives, including official ceremonies, exhibitions, concerts, festivals, and community events, take place across the country.
With deep roots in Canada since the early 1950s, the Portuguese community primarily settled in the provinces of Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, with significant concentrations in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.
Most of the early Portuguese emigrants arrived from the Azores and Madeira, seeking better living conditions.
It is currently estimated that around 500,000 people of Portuguese descent live in Canada, making it one of the largest Portuguese diaspora communities globally.
Over the decades, Portuguese Canadians have distinguished themselves in multiple sectors, including politics, education, arts, business, sports, and volunteering.
National official recognition was approved in 2017 by the House of Commons through Motion M-126, put forward by MP Julie Dzerowicz and unanimously approved.
The province of Ontario was a pioneer in this recognition, approving the “Celebration of Portuguese Heritage Act” in 2001, declaring June as the month of Portuguese history and heritage in that jurisdiction.
Portugal Day celebrations are marked in various Canadian cities with ceremonial events, cultural activities, and tributes to the community, reinforcing historical and cultural ties between Canada and Portugal.
