This is historical material “frozen in time”. The website is no longer updated and links to external websites and some internal pages may not work.

Search form

The White House

Statement of President Barack Obama on Day of Portugal, Camoes, and the Portuguese Communities

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release                            June 10, 2009
 
Statement of President Barack Obama
on Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities
The United States and Portugal have a strong and long standing friendship. Today, on the "Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities,"people of Portuguese descent around the world mark the date of the passing of Portugal’s greatest poet, Luís Vaz de Camões. It is fitting that Camões, who lived from 1524 to 1580, is best known for his epic poem, Os Lusíadas -- a tribute to the golden age of Portuguese exploration and discovery. This Nation has greatly benefited from the contributions of countless Portuguese-Americans. On this Day of Portugal, I proudly send my best wishes to all who celebrate Portuguese culture and heritage on this occasion.