José Celso Barbosa Day
July 27, Sunday
Date of Celebration
The holiday is observed annually on July 27, which marks the birthdate of Dr. Barbosa in 1857.
Who Was José Celso Barbosa?
Dr. José Celso Barbosa was a trailblazing figure in Puerto Rican history. He was:
- The first Puerto Rican to earn a medical degree in the United States (University of Michigan, 1880)
- A strong advocate for equal rights and education
- A founder of the Puerto Rican Republican Party in 1899, which supported U.S. statehood for Puerto Rico
- A member of the Puerto Rican Senate and a key figure in shaping the island's political landscape
Significance of the Holiday
The holiday serves to:
- Commemorate Barbosa’s contributions to medicine, politics, and civil rights
- Promote awareness of Puerto Rico’s political history and the ongoing debate over its status
- Inspire civic engagement and pride in Puerto Rican heritage
How It Is Celebrated
José Celso Barbosa Day is marked by:
- Ceremonies and speeches by public officials
- Educational events in schools and universities
- Visits to Barbosa’s birthplace in Bayamón, where a museum and mausoleum are dedicated to his memory
- Community activities that highlight his achievements and ideals
Dr. Barbosa is remembered as a pioneer who broke racial and social barriers. His advocacy for equality and his vision for Puerto Rico’s future continue to influence political discourse on the island today.