BOSTON – Wednesday, October 14, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu today announced the appointment of Elsie Dias as the City of Boston’s new Cape Verdean Cultural Advisor within the Office of Cultural Affairs. The office, within the Equity and Inclusion Cabinet, is composed of Cultural Advisors who engage and partner with communities across Boston to support cultural programs, partnerships, and policies that reflect the needs and experiences of Boston residents.

“Boston has been shaped by generations of residents who have worked to bring our neighborhoods together,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Elsie’s service and leadership has made a lasting impact across many City departments, and I am excited that she will continue to be a strong voice for our Cabo Verdean community, so every idea is heard and City programs reach all our residents.”

Born and raised in Boston, Dias has deep roots in Dorchester and a lifelong connection to the City’s Cape Verdean community. Her grandparents immigrated to Boston from Cabo Verde in 1975. Their journey and commitment to family and community helped shape Dias’s values and her commitment to public service.

As Cultural Advisor, Dias will help connect Cape Verdean residents with City services, resources, programs, and opportunities. She will also work with community members, organizations, and City departments to strengthen connections and support culturally responsive programs and services.

“I am honored to serve as the City of Boston’s Cape Verdean Cultural Advisor,” said Elsie Dias. “My family’s journey from Cabo Verde to Boston shaped who I am and taught me the importance of community, service, and staying connected to our roots. I look forward to listening to residents, building relationships, and helping make sure Cape Verdean residents feel welcomed, valued, and connected to the City.”

Dias began her career in community service as a Community Outreach Coordinator with the Cape Verdean Association of Boston. In that role, she connected residents with resources, services, and opportunities. Before starting as a Cultural Advisor, Dias worked at the City’s Age Strong Commission, where she advocated with and supported older residents to ensure housing and access to essential resources.

“Boston is proud to welcome Elsie Dias to this important role,” said Alexandra Valdez, Director of the Mayor’s Office Cultural Affairs. “Elsie brings a deep connection to Dorchester, Boston, and the Cape Verdean community, along with years of experience serving residents. Her knowledge, relationships, and commitment to community will help strengthen the connection between City Hall and Cape Verdean residents across Boston.”

Dias is also a fluent speaker of Kriolu. Her grandmother, Isabel Daveiga, helped nurture her connection to the language and the cultural traditions of her family. For Dias, speaking Kriolu is a way to stay connected to her family, her heritage, and generations of Cape Verdeans who came before her.

The City of Boston has a long history of supporting and celebrating its Cape Verdean community. Boston continues to offer programs and services that recognize the importance of Cape Verdean language and culture, including the City’s Cabo Verdean Language and Culture Preservation Program.