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Elsie Dias has been named the new Cape Verdean cultural advisor for the Mayor’s Office. Courtesy photo
Elsie Dias says that her work at the Cape Verdean Association of Boston on Bowdoin Street helped land her “right where I’m supposed to be,”and that is as the new Cape Verdean cultural advisor for Mayor Michelle Wu.
“It was perfect, to be honest,” said the 49-year-old Dorchester resident. “I see all the connections, and this is where I wanted to be at and am very grateful to have this position. I am looking forward to strengthening and empowering my community.”
Alexandra Valdez, director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, said it was great timing getting Dias on board to replace former liaison Eliseu Depina, who departed earlier this year to enter the Boston Police Academy.
“Our team is now complete,” she said. “Bringing Elsie on board is a tremendous addition. We’re starting the fall season with someone who can get going on day one. We’re excited to bring her on with our other cultural liaisons.”
Dias was born in Dorchester to Elizabeth Barbosa and the late Franklin Dias, who immigrated here from Cabo Verde’s Fogo island in 1974. However, while her parents worked, she was mostly raised by her grandmother, Isabel Daveiga.
“She was the rock of our family and taught me everything I know,” she said. “She kept me connected to my language and I can speak it fluently and I owe that to her. She also taught me to cook, and she did it all.”
The specialty was Cachupa – a rich stew made with hominy, beans, vegetables and seasoned meats. “Our food takes time,” Dias said. “My grandmother made it with so much love and that’s what she taught me. Making Cachupa is one of my favorite dishes to cook.”
She will now work as a bridge between the Cabo Verde government and Boston, as dignitaries often pay visits to Dorchester and Boston City Hall due to the large diaspora living here.
Just last week, new prime minister, Francisco Carvalho, made a stop in Dorchester at the Lilla Frederick School and along Bowdoin Street. Other officials often drop by the community as well, with the liaison playing a key role in those visits.
