Providence, Rhode Island — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., delivered a moving tribute honoring Senator Jack F. Reed of Rhode Island at a special program held in Providence, on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, highlighting Senator Reed’s decades of dedication to the Liberian people and his instrumental role in supporting Liberian immigrants in the United States.

In his speech, President Boakai expressed deep gratitude for Senator Reed’s unwavering advocacy, particularly his leadership in the passage of the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act of 2019 (H.R. 1169).

This critical legislation has provided thousands of Liberians in the U.S. with a path to permanent residency, allowing them to rebuild their lives with dignity and security.

President Boakai lauded Senator Reed’s work as a powerful example of humanity and solidarity, acknowledging the Senator’s tireless efforts in standing by Liberia in its most challenging times.

“Senator Reed, your handprints are all over the struggle of the Liberian refugees here for survival, dignity, and advancement,” President Boakai remarked, adding, “You have championed the cause of Liberians, and we salute you.”

The event was also attended by Representative Grace Diaz of Rhode Island, whom President Boakai gleefully referred to as “a native Liberian” after jokingly “breaking the tie” in favor of Liberia based on her Liberian-Dominican heritage.

President Boakai highlighted Representative Diaz’s work in promoting Liberian culture through educational initiatives in Rhode Island and her unwavering support to the Liberian people.

Both Senator Reed and Representative Diaz were invited by President Boakai to visit Liberia, emphasizing the deep historical and cultural ties between Liberia and the State of Rhode Island.

President Boakai also took the opportunity to acknowledge the enduring friendship between Liberia and the United States, calling on U.S. allies to continue their support as Liberia embarks on its journey of national reform. The President highlighted his Government’s ARREST Agenda, which focuses on reforms in Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation & Health, and Tourism & Trade.

The Liberian Diaspora, President Boakai stressed, remains a vital part of the nation’s future, urging the community to continue supporting efforts toward reconciliation, peace, and sustainable development.

“We have risen from the ashes of conflict, and together, we are shaping a brighter and more harmonious future for Liberia,” President Boakai said, urging unity among Liberians and their friends.

As Liberia strengthens its democratic foundations and advances toward prosperity, President Boakai affirmed that the support of friends like Senator Reed, Representative Diaz, and the people of Rhode Island remains crucial. He ended his remarks with a heartfelt blessing for all those working to uplift Liberia, both at home and abroad.

In his response, the influential United States Senator from Rhode Island express deep appreciation for the guesture.  He reaffirmed his love for Liberians and recounting his many productive interactions with them. He recommitted himself to continuing to push Liberian causes at the United States Capitol.

The ceremony was climaxed with the gowning of Senator Reed with an elegant traditional Liberian regalia and the awarding of a plaque to him and Representative Diaz.