Cape Verdean Voices: An Exhibition in Honor of Judge George N. Leighton

The Cape Verdean experience is simultaneously longing for “home,” recognition of the difficulties Cape Verdeans have faced throughout history and the creative and unique ways that Cape Verdeans have adapted and persevered in Cabo Verde, New Bedford, and beyond.

From whaling, agriculture, and entrepreneurship to cuisine, music, and language, Cape Verdeans are part of the fabric of New Bedford. During Cape Verdean Recognition Week 2019 and throughout July and August, the New Bedford Whaling Museum proudly paid tribute to Cape Verdean culture and creativity in this exhibition.

Showcasing many forms of media from our local community, including painting, photography, sculpture, poetry, music and others, this exhibition reflected local Cape Verdean voices and covered themes such as immigration, island culture(s), family, Cape Verdean, and Cape Verdean American identity, Cape Verdean folklore, and Cape Verdean history.

This exhibition was in honor of Judge George N. Leighton, the son of Cape Verdean immigrants to the area. Judge Leighton was a prominent Civil Rights activist and the first Cape Verdean American Federal Judge. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 105. He is a magnificent example of the achievements of children of immigrants, a brilliant example of the story of Cape Verdeans in the United States, and a model of hard work and American success.

The opening reception was held July 3, 2019.