“Representative Daisy Morales Introduces House Resolution 8069, Establishing April 2nd as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida”
Representative Daisy Morales, the highest-elected Puerto Rican woman in Florida, championed Puerto Rican culture and heritage by sponsoring House Resolution 8069, officially declaring April 2nd as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida.
The resolution honors the profound contributions Puerto Ricans have made to Florida’s history and culture. It recognizes Juan Ponce de León, the first Governor of Puerto Rico, who led an expedition from Puerto Rico and discovered and named Florida on April 2, 1513. Additionally, it acknowledges Puerto Rican soldiers who served during the American Revolution, helping secure U.S. independence, and the heroic Borinqueneers, who received the Congressional Gold Medal and the Governor’s Veterans Service Award for their distinguished military service.
In support of this historic milestone, Representative Morales urged proclamations from Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer to formally recognize April 2nd as Puerto Rican Heritage Day statewide.
“April 2, 2022, marks the 509th anniversary of Florida’s founding by Puerto Rican ancestors and the beginning of their invaluable contributions to the state,” said Representative Morales.
House Resolution 8069 also acknowledges the 5.8 million residents of Puerto Rico and the 1.2 million Puerto Ricans residing in Florida, highlighting the continued influence and legacy of the Puerto Rican community.
Through her bold leadership and unwavering advocacy, Representative Daisy Morales has established an enduring legacy, celebrating the rich history and vibrant culture of Puerto Ricans in Florida.

Executive Team

JENNIFER ROSARIO
Vice President, PRHN

ZORAIDA RIOS-ANDINO
Secretary / Historian

JULIE STAYROOK
Treasurer
Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by former State Representative Daisy Morales,
is committed to promoting the advancement of Puerto Rican heritage through educational programs, projects, and events
MISSION STATEMENT
To empower and unite Puerto Ricans through transformative leadership, bold advocacy,
and impactful initiatives that celebrate Puerto Rican heritage. We are committed to showcasing
the profound contributions of Puerto Ricans to Florida and the nation, inspiring future generations
to honor their legacy and drive meaningful change.
VISION STATEMENT
To become a leading voice for Puerto Rican heritage, fostering pride, unity, and progress
through education, community development, and advocacy in Florida and beyond.
Our Services

At the Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN), we are dedicated to empowering and advancing the Puerto Rican community while fostering resilience, growth, and unity within our communities. Our work spans a wide range of critical areas, including:
- Education: Promoting access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
- Health: Supporting initiatives that improve health outcomes and wellness.
- Immigration: Assisting with immigration-related challenges and advocacy.
- Housing: Addressing affordable housing and homelessness issues.
- Culture & Arts: Celebrating and preserving Puerto Rican heritage and artistic expression.
- Hunger Relief: Combating food insecurity within Puerto Rican communities.
- Civic Engagement: Encouraging active participation in civic and democratic processes.
- Economic Empowerment: Creating pathways for economic growth and self-sufficiency.
- Environmental Justice: Advocating for sustainable and equitable environmental practices.
- Nonprofit Development: Strengthening the impact and capacity of nonprofit organizations.
- Internship Programs: Providing hands-on training and experience in film production and news media to inspire the next generation of Puerto Rican leaders.
PRHN Nonprofits Network
The Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) collaborates with a diverse network of nonprofits, which serves as the foundation for building strong communities and creating lasting impacts in the lives of Puerto Ricans.
Our Members and Benefits
PRHN supports its nonprofit members by offering a range of valuable services, including:
- Technical Assistance: Providing expert guidance to strengthen organizational capacity.
- Fundraising Workshops: Equipping members with strategies to secure resources and expand their impact.
- Grant Opportunities: Offering operating support and funding to sustain and grow initiatives.
- Nonprofit Organizational Development: Assisting nonprofits in enhancing their operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Through this collaborative network, PRHN empowers nonprofit organizations to drive meaningful change and uplift Puerto Rican communities.

PRHN Internship Program
Earn While You Learn: Building Skills in Acting, Film Production, and News Media Production
The Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) is proud to offer a dynamic and immersive internship program designed to empower aspiring professionals with hands-on experience in the entertainment and media industries. This program combines education, mentorship, and real-world practice to help participants build meaningful careers while celebrating and promoting Puerto Rican heritage.
