About Us

Founded in 2005 by Denise Oliveira the Cape Verdean Museum is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, celebration and promotion of Cape Verde’s history and culture. Originally located in East Providence, it was strategically relocated to Pawtucket, RI, the most densely Cape Verdean populated city in the United States, followed by Massachusetts and Connecticut. The museum is a hub of artifacts, displays, photographs, and artwork donated by Cape Verdeans worldwide, highlighting Cape Verde’s historic, economic, and social contributions to the world. We utilize culturally inspired exhibits, events, language, and arts programming to represent Cape Verdeans both in Cape Verde and the diaspora, while promoting cross-cultural engagement for the American and global community. 

As the first and still the only museum of its kind, the Cape Verdean Museum offers the community a unique physical library, historic exhibits, a traveling museum program as well as Kriolu language, and music courses for children and adults. The museum promotes educational and cultural programming featuring Cape Verdean scholars, artists, authors, and government officials designed for families, school groups, educators, and the public. To date, the museum has welcomed a diverse range of visitors foreign and domestic such Cape Verde’s current President, Prime Minister, the Mayors of Brava, Praia, educators from 38 US states, 2 US territories and 58 foreign countries. We partner with local organizations such as the RI Heritage Commission and the Pawtucket School Department to promote cultural awareness and community unity. The CVM was founded by and is supported by community members, for the global diasporic community and future generations of Cape Verdean children.