June 1, 2025
June is recognized nationally as Caribbean American Heritage Month in the United States by presidential proclamation.
Caribbean American Heritage Month (CAHM) was established to celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the Caribbean American people and their contribution to the United States. In June 2005, the House of Representatives unanimously adopted H. Con. Res. 71, sponsored by Congresswoman Barbara Lee. On February 14, 2006, the resolution similarly passed the Senate and President George W. Bush issued the Proclamation on June 6, 2006.
In the 19th century, the United States attracted many Caribbeans across various professions. Some notable Caribbean Americans include Colin Powell, the first person of color appointed as the Secretary of the State; Celia Cruz, the world-renowned “Queen of Salsa” music; Jamaican singer and actor, Harry Belafonte; Shirley Chisholm, the first African American Congresswoman and first African American woman candidate for President and more.