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Rhode Island National Guard Celebrates 8th Annual Diversity Day Celebration
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Public Affairs Specialist Rhode Island National Guard (10/11/2004) — On Tuesday, September 28th, men and women of the Rhode Island National Guard and Emergency Management Agency celebrated Diversity Day at the Roger Williams Park Casino. This event has been celebrated by the Rhode Island National Guard for the past 8 years. With more than 200 persons in attendance, all were treated to the soulful sounds of drumming by the Sisters and Brothers African Drummers who performed during the event. This event attracted many members of the Rhode Island community, along with members of the Guard and EMA family. Gov. Donald L. Carcieri was in attendance along with Attorney General Patrick Lynch, Secretary of State Matt Brown, Mayor Stephen Laffey of Cranston, as well as 1st Councilman Randy Noka of the Narragansett Indian Tribe. Making a trip back to his home state was Maj. Tom Languirand, chief of the NGB-ARNG Well-Being Branch. State Senator Juan Pichardo who is also a technical sergeant with the 143rd Airlift Wing, joined in during and celebration. Mrs. Cheryl Burrell who is the president of the Multi-Cultural Advisory Council introduced the guest speaker, Ms. Joaquin a Bella Teixiera of the Black Heritage Society who shared historical accounts about Rhode Island’s 1st Black Regiment. – Pastor Moises Mendes of The Brazilian Assembly of God Church provided the Invocation. His words of prayer and celebration echoed throughout the building. The event was capped off with a buffet-style luncheon where everyone shared in a spirit of unity while sampling the more than 14 different ethnic foods represented. Diversity is not something that is new to the Rhode Island National Guard. A commitment was orchestrated more than 9 years ago when Maj. Gen. Reginald A. Centracchio, adjutant general of Rhode Island, affirmed his position that diversity must be incorporated and fully embraced into the guard. The general has made advancing diversity within the ranks and important part of his vision for this National Guard. Centracchio has challenged all members of the Guard and EMA to join him in increasing and nurturing diversity. Last 10 Stories |
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2004 National Guard Bureau |
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