International Symposium Highlights Empowerment of Cape Verdean Women in the USA

On March 29, 2025, Bridgewater State University will host an international symposium titled “The State of Cape Verdean Women: Overcoming Violence and Advancing Success in Politics, Education, and Business,” organized by Cape Verdean Women United (CVWU) and the Coalition to Combat Violence Against Women (CCVAW). The event, scheduled to take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., is open to the public and registration is now available through Eventbrite.

The symposium aims to bring together leaders, activists, and community members to discuss the challenges faced by Cape Verdean women in the United States, promote solutions to issues such as gender-based violence, and explore advances in areas such as politics, education, and business. With an interactive format, the event will include panels, Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities, creating an environment of support and equity.

Confirmed speakers include Gung Tavares, a journalist, author, and historian who brings a rich perspective on Cape Verdean culture and history, and is a former cultural attaché at the Cape Verdean consulate in Boston. Dr. Aminah Fernandes Pilgrim, co-founder of Poderosa and a scholar with a PhD in History from Rutgers University, will share her research on the African diaspora and female empowerment, with a focus on Cape Verdean women. Finally, Senator Liz Miranda of Suffolk, Massachusetts’ 2nd District, known for her work in social justice and community organizing, will bring her political experience to enrich the dialogue, potentially influencing legislation related to gender equality.

The event is sponsored by organizations such as Sunrise Steakhouse, the Pedro Pires Cape Verdean Research Center, and the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, reinforcing its relevance and credibility. The poster’s vibrant design, with colors of pink and purple, reflects the event’s commitment to visibility and empowerment, highlighting images of women at conferences and the silhouette of a Cape Verdean woman.

CVWU, founded in 2016 in Brockton, MA, is a non-profit organization focused on health, violence prevention, and education, using culturally appropriate approaches to support the Cape Verdean community. CCVAW, while less documented, seems aligned with the mission of combating violence against women, strengthening the partnership with CVWU for this symposium.

This event takes place against a backdrop of significant challenges for Cape Verdean women in the U.S., including barriers in sectors such as tourism and issues of gender-based violence, as highlighted in World Bank reports. The presence of figures such as Liz Miranda suggests a connection to broader public policy, offering a platform to advance equity and empowerment.

Those interested in participating can register on Eventbrite , guaranteeing their presence on a day dedicated to promoting positive change for Cape Verdean women and their communities.