“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.
