By R. Wilson From St Kitts & Nevis Observer

US President Barack Obama in declaring June National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, says both nations have a shared past and their futures are inextricably linked.

President Obama on May 29 signed the proclamation to officially celebrate the contributions of Caribbean-Americans towards the development of the US.

“Caribbean Americans have shaped the course of our country since the earliest chapters of our history, and they continue to drive our Nation to realize the promise of our founding. During National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we honor the courage and perseverance of the Caribbean-American community, and we rededicate ourselves to building opportunity and protecting human rights for all our citizens,” he said.

He highlighted the recent launch of Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) as well as the US’ assistance to the region in relation to renewable energy.

“We are investing in young business leaders and civil society activists, working to expand what is possible for the next generation of Caribbean leaders, and supporting entrepreneurship, student exchanges, and more effective job training. With new partnerships, we are helping to move the region toward cleaner, more affordable energy. And as the United States begins to normalize our relations with Cuba, we have the potential to empower a nation and end a legacy of mistrust in our hemisphere.”

Obama, who continues to face opposition for his executive decision to relax US immigration policy, encouraged all Americans to celebrate the history and culture of Caribbean Americans with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

“As millions of Caribbean Americans continue to innovate and thrive in the United States, my Administration is committed to lifting up hardworking individuals throughout the Caribbean and partnering with governments to build the foundation for the next century of progress and prosperity,” he said.

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