Nilma Dominique (left) pictured with Representative Tram Nguyen

The Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus held its annual event at the Massachusetts State House on March 29 to honor “Black Excellence on the Hill.” Among the honorees was MIT Portuguese Lecturer Nilma Dominique.

The event, held annually during Black History Month, recognizes Black community leaders and “trailblazers that are moving the needle forward in cities and towns across the state.” This year’s event drew over 300 attendees.

Nilma Dominique was nominated by Tram Nguyen, who is State Representative for the 18th Essex District. Dominique was recognized for her “outstanding contributions to Portuguese language education and her dedication to advancing language learning and cultural understanding” and for her trailblazing in her field, “inspiring students and colleagues alike with her passion for language learning and cultural understanding.”

The Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus has its roots in a Black legislative caucus formed in 1973.

Event program