It all begins here…
Portuguese Heritage Alliance of Utah
PRESS RELEASE: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2025
Contact:
Abel Chaves, President & CEO
Portuguese Heritage Alliance of Utah (PHAU)
Email: info@portugueseheritageutah.org
Phone: +1 (504) 298 9206
Utah Witnesses the Birth of the First-Ever Portuguese Cultural Organization:
Portuguese Heritage Alliance of Utah Brings Portugal’s Spirit to the American West
West Jordan, UT —
In a historic milestone for cultural advocacy in the Mountain West, Utah proudly announces the launch of its first Portuguese cultural organization: the Portuguese Heritage Alliance of Utah (PHAU).
Founded as a nonprofit, PHAU is dedicated to celebrating Portuguese culture, strengthening community ties, and sharing the Portuguese language and traditions with broader audiences across Utah and beyond.
“This Alliance is built on the timeless values of our heritage—resilience, unity, and joy,” said Abel Chaves, President and CEO of PHAU. “Our mission is not only to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, but also to create opportunities for new generations to connect with their roots. Through music, art, food, and education, we aim to preserve Portugal’s rich traditions while building bridges of friendship with Utah’s diverse communities. This is more than a cultural effort—it is a legacy in motion.”
Mission and Vision
PHAU’s work is guided by three pillars:
Cultural Celebration – Hosting festivals, culinary fairs, artistic performances, and historical commemorations.
Community Engagement – Promoting dialogue and connections between Portuguese-speaking communities and Utah’s broader population through education and outreach.
Heritage Preservation – Upholding and transmitting the Portuguese spirit of saudade, resilience, and joy to future generations.Leadership with Purpose
PHAU is led by Abel Chaves, President & CEO, and Cristina Baldaia, Vice-President, whose background in law and community engagement brings dynamic energy and vision. Their leadership combines tradition and innovation, ensuring PHAU’s programs are both rooted in heritage and forward-looking.
Why Utah, Why Now?
Utah’s Portuguese-speaking community, though modest in size, has contributed meaningfully to the state’s history—from early immigrants working in mining and agriculture to today’s students, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
The creation of PHAU formally recognizes this legacy and aligns with Utah’s commitment to cultural diversity, inclusion, and international partnerships.
Upcoming Initiatives
PHAU’s inaugural year will feature:
An Annual Portugal Day Celebration
Cultural fairs, culinary exhibitions, and art showcases
Educational partnerships with schools, universities, and consular offices
Showcasing Portuguese performing arts and traditions
A Cultural Beacon in the West
With its establishment, the Portuguese Heritage Alliance of Utah becomes a cultural beacon in the American West—illuminating the values of Portugal and fostering pride, connection, and cultural exchange for generations to come.
About the Portuguese Heritage Alliance of Utah (PHAU)
The Portuguese Heritage Alliance of Utah (PHAU) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2025 to preserve and promote Portuguese culture, language, and traditions in Utah and beyond. Through cultural events, educational initiatives, and community partnerships,
PHAU celebrates Portugal’s rich legacy while fostering connection and understanding across communities.
For more information, updates, or to get involved, please visit: portugueseheritageutah.org
