Why We Celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month in June

Every June, the U.S. celebrates Caribbean American Heritage Month, a vibrant tribute to the

people, culture, and influence of the Caribbean in American life. It's a time to honor the millions of Caribbean immigrants and their descendants who have helped shape this country’s history, creativity, and progress.

But why June?

The recognition was made official in 2006, when President George W. Bush signed a

proclamation designating June as Caribbean American Heritage Month. The effort was

championed by Dr. Claire Nelson and the Institute of Caribbean Studies, who worked for years to ensure that Caribbean voices and contributions were properly celebrated. The month of June was chosen because it marks the arrival of the first recorded Caribbean immigrants to the United States in 1838.

Since then, Caribbean Americans have made their mark across every field from politics and

activism to the arts, education, sports, and science. Think of Colin Powell (Jamaican heritage),

the first Black U.S. Secretary of State. Or Sheryl Lee Ralph, Sidney Poitier, Rihanna, and

Wyclef Jean, who brought Caribbean excellence to stages and screens worldwide. Even Vice

President Kamala Harris shares Jamaican roots.

Caribbean culture pulses with life through steelpan rhythms, Carnival colors, storytelling

traditions, and flavorful dishes that warm both the body and soul. Whether it's the beat of soca

and reggae, the poetic language of Creole, or the spiritual legacy of resistance movements,

Caribbean people have long brought joy, resilience, and revolutionary spirit to American soil.

This month, we take time to recognize that legacy. We celebrate those who immigrated in

search of opportunity and built vibrant communities in cities like New York, Miami, Boston, and beyond. We honor the rich tapestry of languages, beliefs, and traditions that Caribbean

Americans carry and pass down to future generations.

So this June, wave your flag with pride, whether it’s Jamaican, Haitian, Dominican, Trinidadian,

Barbadian, Puerto Rican, or any of the dozens of beautiful nations that make up the Caribbean.

Caribbean Heritage Month is more than a celebration; it's a reminder that American culture is

Caribbean culture, and always has been.

Written by Chloe-Kaleah Stewart @chloe.kaleah

Creative Director: Jazzi Almestica @shes.so.dope l Chloe Kaleah Stewart @chloe.kaleah

Production Manager: Tayja Whyte @tayjaa.x

Photography: Rachel Ali @rachelaliphotography

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