“This special event will not only celebrate the significant contributions of Portuguese organizations, past, present and future, but will also highlight the fundamental role these organizations have played in building Manitoba, while preserving Portuguese traditions and culture,” said Pedro Correia, 83, president of the Portuguese Veterans Association of Manitoba – Winnipeg Branch of the League of Combatants.
“This tribute recognizes the contribution of all Portuguese organizations in Manitoba, which, despite being founded in different periods and with different missions, have united over the years to strengthen not only the ties between them, but also the integration of their members,” emphasized the retired militia sergeant of the army, who has been in Canada since 1968.
Pedro Correia also highlighted that as a result of work, conviction and perseverance, “the associations formed a cohesive and strengthened community to face any challenge, with the same dedication as the combatants.”
A distinguished advocate for veterans, Bonnie Korzeniowski, former provincial deputy of Manitoba who passed away on October 15, 2019, will also be honored.
“Bonnie Korzeniowski was a provincial deputy for the St. James electoral district from 1999 to 2011 and Special Envoy for Military Affairs of the Government of Manitoba at the time when the Monument of Homage to Combatants was inaugurated. From the first contact, she supported this cause unequivocally with invaluable support, revealing deep appreciation for the sacrifices and contribution of veterans, which is why her memory will never be forgotten,” he explained.
A plaque honoring the League of Combatants to the Winnipeg Branch will also be unveiled, following the 22nd anniversary of the association, in recognition of the immense sacrifice and contribution of soldiers and families “keeping alive the values of freedom and equality for a fairer world.”
The ceremony will take place on September 7, at 11:00 AM (5:00 PM Lisbon time) at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home and Cemetery.
According to the 2021 census, the Portuguese community in Canada consists of 448,305 people who declared themselves to be of Portuguese ethnic origin, with 240,680 saying that Portuguese was their mother tongue.
There were 166,651 Portuguese registered in the Canadian consular network in 2022.
In Winnipeg, the capital of the province of Manitoba, about 20,000 Portuguese and Portuguese descendants reside.
