IADL Newsletter

IADL Newsletter – October 18, 2026 – SCSU Italian Heritage Symposium on Saturday

The formation of IADL can be understood through the lens of a calling. There are moments in history when people are called to take a stand for something greater than their individual interests. When Columbus Day and monuments of Christopher Columbus came under attack, Italian Americans faced a choice: remain silent or accept the responsibility of defending their history, heritage, and place in American society. Christopher Columbus is not only inseparable from Italian heritage, but a crucial marker of the bond between Italian Americans and the homeland they adopted as their own – The United States. The calling to form the IADL can be understood as a response to the moment that Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, instead of taking a stand, turned her back on Italian Americans by enabling Mayor Justin Elicker to permanently remove New Haven’s Columbus statue from Wooster Square Park in New Haven.

Intellectually, the rationale behind Rosa DeLauro’s decision can be understood: eliminate Christopher Columbus as the central symbol of Italian-American heritage and redirect attention toward other contributions Italians have made to American society. Recognizing those contributions is certainly worthwhile. But leadership requires more than recognizing the direction of a political movement and adapting to it. Removing Columbus from that central position was not simply a change in emphasis; it represented a break with a tradition that had carried profound meaning for generations. IADL filled a void left empty by leaders of the Italian-American community in Connecticut by defending the historical and cultural significance of Columbus while acknowledging the complexities of his legacy and promoting the many other achievements of Italians and Italian Americans.

Attend this SCSU Event in Support of Christopher Columbus and Italian Heritage

On October 24, 2026. at Southern Connecticut State University, Marco Peronaci, Ambassador of Italy to the United States, will be the featured guest at New Haven's Italian American Story: A Symposium for America's 250th. Peronaci is an appointee of Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy. After attending The White House’s Columbus Day celebration, Peronaci posted, “Happy to see Columbus at the White House, a symbol of the contribution of Italians and Italian Americans to the history and fabric of the United States.”

The event will take place from 9:30 – 1:30 at the Adanti Student Center Ballroom, Southern Connecticut State University, 501 Crescent St. New Haven CT, 06515. Doors open at 9:00 AM. The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. The central question in the symposium is: What role did your family play in New Haven's Italian community? In addition to Peronaci, Rosa DeLauro, Co-Chair of the Italian American Congressional Delegation, will attend. Speakers include Hon. Guido Calabresi, Dr. Anthony Julian Tamburri, Dr. Dennis Cerrotti, Joseph Carbone, Sr. Doretta D'Albero, ASCJ, Francesca Riggio Scarpa, Marc Massaro, and John Migliaro.

The flyer describes the event, “Together they'll share Italian American contributions to the arts, civic life, politics, business, and social justice in Greater New Haven and beyond, with a tribute to oral historian Anthony Riccio. Drawing on Antonio Cannelli's 1921 portrait of the community, the day invites everyone to hear these stories, share their own, and discover what they mean for America at 250. A reception follows. Presented by La Colonia Digital Archive at SCSU with the Wooster Square Italian Immigrant Historical Society.”

This Week in Italian-American History

October 18, 1889 - Death of Antonio Meucci. Italian inventor Antonio Meucci died on Staten Island, New York. He developed an early telephone-like communication device, known as the telettrofono.

October 18, 1933 - Birth of Ludovico Scarfiotti. Italian racing driver Ludovico Scarfiotti was born in Turin. He won the Italian Grand Prix at Monza in 1966, becoming the last Italian driver to win his home Grand Prix until 2026.

October 19 - Joseph Petrosino and Italian-American law enforcement. On this date in 1909, Italian-American police lieutenant Joseph Petrosino was assassinated in Palermo, Sicily, while investigating organized crime. He was a pioneer in combating criminal networks and challenging the damaging association of Italian immigrants with organized crime.

October 19, 2003 - Mother Teresa is beatified. Mother Teresa was beatified by Pope John Paul II in Rome. Born in Skopje to an Albanian family, she spent much of her life serving the poor in India. Her beatification is an important event in modern Catholic history, which has deep connections to Italian-American religious and community life.

October 20, 1435 - Birth of Andrea della Robbia. Italian Renaissance sculptor Andrea della Robbia was born in Florence. He became renowned for his glazed terracotta sculptures and reliefs, helping preserve the artistic legacy of the Italian Renaissance.

October 21, 1921 - Rudolph Valentino’s The Sheik premieres. The silent film starring Rudolph Valentino helped establish his image as Hollywood’s iconic “Latin Lover.” Valentino, born in Castellaneta, Italy, became one of the earliest international screen idols and a prominent figure in Italian-American popular culture.

October 22, 1942 - Birth of Annette Funicello. Annette Funicello was born in Utica, New York. She became famous as one of the original Mouseketeers on The Mickey Mouse Club and later starred in popular beach-party films. She remains a beloved figure in American entertainment history.

October 23, 1920 - Birth of Gianni Rodari. Italian writer Gianni Rodari was born in Omegna, Italy. Celebrated for his imaginative children's literature, he received the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1970 for his contribution to children's writing.

October 23, 1933 - Francesco Agello sets an aviation speed record. Italian test pilot Francesco Agello reached approximately 709 kilometers per hour (440 miles per hour) in a seaplane powered by an Italian-designed engine. His achievement demonstrated Italy's engineering and aviation capabilities during the interwar period.

October 24, 1812 - Battle of Maloyaroslavets. During Napoleon’s invasion of Russia, French forces fought Russian troops at Maloyaroslavets. The battle formed part of Napoleon’s disastrous Russian campaign and involved Italian soldiers serving in his multinational army.

Italian Heritage News & Culture

President Meloni's video message to the 2026 NIAF Gala

The Famous Italian-American Brand That Makes High-Quality Frozen Pizza

Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils Statue Honoring Italian Explorer Christopher Columbus in Naples

New York City Columbus Day Parade - Full Video

Chicago Columbus Day Parade - Full Video

Providence Columbus Day Parade - Video Clips

Italian American Events

UNICO Stamford Italian Heritage Month in Connecticut

October 19th through October 23rd - Italian Heritage Exhibit, CT State Community College Norwalk Lobby 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 20th ; Viewing of Cinema Paradiso, 3pm CT State Community College Norwalk Theater, 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 23rd - Italian Film Festival, “Moonstruck”, Ferguson Library (Sponsored by AVON), Free viewing time 6:30-9pm

October 24th -“ Settefrati, Our Sister City” Harry Bennett Branch of Ferguson Library, FREE 2 pm – 3:30 pm

October 24th - UNICO's Annual Italian Heritage Night at the Hartford Athletic Soccer Stadium, 7pm Home match. TAILGATE in the parking lot. 5pm. Contact MaryJoan 860-805-2139

October 25th ; Gardening Event (including growing tips, recipe and seed exchange) at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Rd. $20 museum “Fall Event” entrance fee, 10am – 1pm

American Italian Women of Greater New Haven

October 25th - Charity Benefit Luncheon at Anthony’s Ocean View in New Haven, Connecticut. Donations will benefit Halfway Home Rescue, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to saving the lives of abused, abandoned, and homeless animals. This Italian American Women of Distinction Awards luncheon will give all proceeds to the charity as the beneficiary.

Italian American Alliance Event

November 7th - The IAA & the AMICI Project present its 2026 fundraiser performance by renowned Italian Tenor Alberto Profeta direct from Sicily, music by Tino D’Agostino and his Band. Emcee Ross Zagami, Saturday, November 7, 2026, Watertown, MA Sons & Daughters of Italy Lodge, 520 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472, 6:00pm – 7:00pm Social Hour & Cash Bar, 7:00pm – Appetizers/Light Meal/Desserts/Coffee, 8:00pm – 10:00pm Performance. For more information or tickets, please contact: Marisa Di Pietro 617-650-3442 Marisadipietro65@gmail.com, or Florence Guidara 617-877-7285

Legal Fund

IADL has 212 members and 50 newsletter subscribers. With una voce, we can be heard! You can contribute to this GoFundMe or Zeffy (no fees) to fund our efforts to return the Columbus monument to Wooster Square in New Haven. Donate to IADL using this link. Zeffy charges NO FEES! 100% of your donations will go to the Italian-American Defense League.

Stay in Touch

Website: https://iadlnow.org/

X: https://x.com/IADLPresident

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iadlnow/?hl=en

Member of COPOMIAO: https://copomiao.org/

Buy some merchandise in our online store!

Purchase IADL clothes, hats, and bags here. Also, you can purchase March 14, 1891, merchandise here to commemorate the New Orleans lynchings that led to the first national Columbus Day. 12% goes to the IADL!

Now is the time!

Marco Peronaci, Ambassador of Italy to the United States

IADL Newsletter

IADL Newsletter – October 11, 2026 – Christopher Columbus “Vincero”

The triumph of the Marxist radicals has ended, and we will win. During the Columbus Day ceremony at the White House, President Donald J. Trump listened contentedly to Tenor Christopher Macchio’s rendition of Nessun Dorma. The last line of the song from Giacomo Puccini's final opera, Turando, is “Vincero,” or “I will win.” As President Trump battles radical policies across the United States, he has come to the side of Italian Americans who unexpectedly faced the radical rioters of 2020 who destroyed our American and Italian-American symbols of Christopher Columbus. Marxist rioters, like the Taliban, destroy monuments and erase history. In the Summer of 2020, mayors sided with rioters over loyal Italian-American citizens. Rioters razed and forced the removal of Columbus statues in Democrat run cities, successfully completing work of the Ku Klux Klan of the early twentieth century who despised Christopher Columbus.

President Trump recognizes something about the anti-Columbus movement that many do not. I first understood one of the real motivations behind the movement in 2020. At that time, a source close to the Hartford City Council explained to me that facts do not matter. The real reason behind the city council’s movement to remove Columbus is that he brought Christianity to America. The majority of the council did not challenge the radicals who supported the removal of the city’s Columbus statue. That is a shocking reality to many but look no further than the hundreds of Christian symbols that have been desecrated since 2020. The United States Council of Catholic Bishops report that at least 416 publicly reported acts of arson, vandalism, and destruction (including smashed or beheaded statues and defaced gravestones) have targeted Catholic churches and sites across 43 states and the District of Columbia since May 2020. President Trump put an end to that destruction in Washington, D.C. and has restored our nation’s symbols and monuments. He highlights the importance of Columbus in spreading Christianity in this year’s Columbus Day proclamation.

Read the proclamation of the President of the United States below. Also, watch President Trump’s Columbus Day speech, which I was able to listen to in person at the White House. It was a privilege and honor to represent Italian-American Defense League at this esteemed event.

A Presidential Columbus Day Proclamation

More than five centuries ago, Christopher Columbus embarked westward across uncharted waters and discovered the New World — bringing with him the rich traditions of Western civilization and paving the way to the birth of the American Nation less than three centuries later. Today, we honor his life of valor, adventure, and ingenuity. We cherish his memory and pledge to safeguard his story. Above all, we remember with gratitude that the triumph of freedom and the glory of our Republic are the fruits of his faith and unrelenting devotion.

In August of 1492, Columbus departed the shores of Spain to chart a new trade route to Asia. With his crew of about 90 men aboard the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María, for more than 2 grueling months, he pressed onward across the vast and unforgiving Atlantic Ocean — braving violent storms and treacherous waters. Through every trial, Columbus never wavered, holding his crew to the mission when most others would have turned back.

When Columbus and his crew made landfall on the islands of the present-day Bahamas, they first believed they had reached the shores of Asia. Instead, their voyage redrew the map of human possibility and opened a new chapter in the history of exploration. They unleashed a bold new age of discovery that expanded the horizons of knowledge, carried the splendors of the Western world across an ocean, and set in motion the forces that would culminate in the miracle of July 4, 1776. When they arrived, as a sign of devotion to God and respect to Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain, Columbus raised a mighty cross in the newly discovered land as a sign that “Your Highnesses hold this land for your own, but chiefly as a sign of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ever since, this spirit of adventure has coursed through the veins of generations of patriots — from the brave settlers who established the first colonial foothold at Jamestown to the daring pioneers who pushed westward and tamed the frontier.

Today, we reaffirm that Christopher Columbus is a legend whose vision, fortitude, and perseverance unleashed a dynamic of history that led to the creation of the greatest, freest, and most just Nation in history. We are forever indebted to his courageous voyage, and we will never allow his legacy to be erased by radical extremists. For this reason, earlier this year, I was proud to install a statue of Christopher Columbus on the White House grounds — an exact replica of the statue that stood for more than three decades in Baltimore, Maryland, from its dedication by President Ronald Reagan in October 1984 until rioters tore it down and threw it into Baltimore Harbor on July 4, 2020. Now placed at the White House, this magnificent monument stands as a testament to the resilient legacy of one of history’s greatest heroes.

Columbus Day also holds special significance for our incredible Italian-American citizens. Like Columbus, they have embodied a steadfast love of country and faith in God, and they continue to strengthen our communities and propel our country to even greater heights.

In 1892, on the occasion of the 400th anniversary of Columbus’ epic voyage, Pope Leo XIII published an encyclical hailing “the greatness of his mind and heart,” which “can be compared to but few in the history of humanity.” The Pope continued: Columbus “looked for a something greater and higher than did these others.” Today, as we celebrate the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the New World, we honor his unrivaled greatness. We embrace our duty to prove worthy of the inheritance he left us, to match his courage with our own, and to never abandon, forsake, or forget the beauty of our faith, the glories of our culture, and the stories of our heroes.

In commemoration of Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage, the Congress, by joint resolution of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C. 107), as amended, has requested the President proclaim the second Monday of October of each year as “Columbus Day.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 12, 2026, as Columbus Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of the great Christopher Columbus and all who have contributed to building our Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifty-first.

DONALD J. TRUMP

Visit IADL’s X account for photos and videos of the Columbus Day Ceremony at The White House.

This Week in Italian-American History

October 11 - Italian immigrant Antonio Pasin, born in 1897 in the Veneto region of Italy, founded the company that became famous for its little red wagons. His success is an example of how Italian immigrants helped shape American manufacturing and childhood culture.

October 12 - Christopher Columbus's expedition reached land in the Caribbean. Columbus's voyages initiated sustained contact between Europe and the Americas, changing the course of world history, leading to the creation of the greatest country in human history: The United States of America. For many Italian Americans, Columbus became a symbol of ethnic pride and recognition, particularly during periods of discrimination against Italian immigrants. Columbus Day is observed on the second Monday in October, which falls on October 12th this year.

October 13 - After Italy's 1943 armistice with the Allies and the German occupation of much of the country, the Italian government declared war on Germany. The United States recognized Italy’s co-belligerent army as an ally. This date illustrates Italy's dramatic change in position during World War II.

October 15 - Italo Calvino was born on October 15, 1923, in Cuba to Italian parents. He became one of Italy's most influential twentieth-century writers, known internationally for imaginative works such as Invisible Cities and If on a Winter's Night a Traveler. His life connects Italian literature, international migration, and cultural influence.

October 16 - At dawn on this date in 1943, Nazi forces began arresting Jews throughout Rome, including in the historic Jewish ghetto. More than 1,000 people were deported to Auschwitz. This tragic anniversary is a day of remembrance and an important part of the history of the Holocaust in Europe.

October 17 - Amadeo Peter Giannini, the son of Italian immigrants, founded the Bank of Italy in San Francisco. He sought to provide banking services to ordinary workers, immigrants, and small-business owners who were often underserved by traditional banks. Bank of Italy later became Bank of America. Giannini's career stands as a significant example of Italian-American entrepreneurship and the role of immigrant communities in American economic development.

Italian Heritage News & Culture

Italian American Events

New Britain, Connecticut – Columbus Day Ceremony

October 12th -There will be a Columbus Day ceremony at the statue in McCabe Park in New Britain on Monday, October 12th at 11:00 a.m. OSDIA’s New Britain lodge will host the event celebrating and honoring our immigrant ancestors and also our Italian American veterans. Representatives from the City of New Britain and other local Italian American organizations will participate in the ceremony.

Council of Italian American Societies of Greater Bridgeport Events

October 11th – Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade. Festivities begin at 10 a.m., the parade starts at noon, and entertainment continues until 5. Rain or shine. Click here for more information.

UNICO Stamford Italian Heritage Month in Connecticut

October 1st -31st - “Italian Contributions to the World” Exhibit; Main Lobby, Ferguson Library

October 11th - COLUMBUS DAY ITALIAN MASS, 10 AM, Sacred Heart Church

October 11th - FLAG RAISING AND COLUMBUS DAY CELEBRATION, 11:30am, Columbus Park

October 16th - Italian Film Festival, “Life is Beautiful”, Ferguson Library (Sponsored by AVON), Free viewing time 6:30-9pm

October 17th - Children's Craft Event: Venetian Masks, Ferguson Library, Free 11 am. Register on Ferguson website

October 18th - Luigi Del Bianco, Chief Carver Mt. Rushmore Lecture, Ferguson Library, Free 2 pm

October 19th through October 23rd - Italian Heritage Exhibit, CT State Community College Norwalk Lobby 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 20th ; Viewing of Cinema Paradiso, 3pm CT State Community College Norwalk Theater, 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 23rd - Italian Film Festival, “Moonstruck”, Ferguson Library (Sponsored by AVON), Free viewing time 6:30-9pm

October 24th -“ Settefrati, Our Sister City” Harry Bennett Branch of Ferguson Library, FREE 2 pm – 3:30 pm

October 24th - UNICO's Annual Italian Heritage Night at the Hartford Athletic Soccer Stadium, 7pm Home match. TAILGATE in the parking lot. 5pm. Contact MaryJoan 860-805-2139

American Italian Women of Greater New Haven

Italian American Alliance Event

Legal Fund

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Member of COPOMIAO: https://copomiao.org/

Buy some merchandise in our online store!

For all of the Italian Americans of the past who commemorated the discovery of America by the courageous, man of faith, Christopher Columbus, and for the Americans of today who carry his legacy to future generations, happy Columbus Day!

Now is the time!

President Trump speaking at the 2026 Columbus Day celebration at The White House

IADL Newsletter

IADL Newsletter – October 4, 2026 – The History of Columbus Day

Columbus Day maintains a long lasting, 142-year tradition of commemorating Italian heritage and culture beginning with the discovery of the New World by the epoch-making Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus. Columbus Day’s origin story began with the March 14, 1891 lynchings of 11 Sicilians in New Orleans. In the aftermath of the tragedy, President Benjamin Harrison’s 1892 Columbus Day proclamation was made in part to avoid a diplomatic crisis with Italy. Harrison encouraged all Americans to commemorate the national observance of the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage. From its very beginning, Columbus Day was an Italian-American holiday.

During the twentieth century, the government continued to re-establish its bond between Italian immigrants and their families. In 1907, Colorado became the first state to recognize Columbus Day as a legal holiday, followed by other states. In 1934, U.S. Congress passed a bill designating October 12 as Columbus Day, a national holiday beginning in 1937. In 1968, U.S. Congress passed a bill designating the second Monday of October as Columbus Day, a federal holiday beginning in 1971. Every U.S. President since Franklin D. Roosevelt has issued a Columbus Day proclamation.

For Italian Americans, Columbus Day became a public expression of Italian American identity and culture, particularly for immigrants whose loyalty and contributions benefited their local communities and the nation as a whole. The link between Columbus Day and Italian-American identity received formal federal recognition in 1980, when President Jimmy Carter proclaimed Italian-American Heritage Week, acknowledging Columbus Day as a symbol of the nation’s debt to Italian Americans. On October 25, 1989, Congress enacted Public Law 101-128, designating October as Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month and recognizing the contributions of Italians and Italian Americans to American society, including the legacy of Christopher Columbus. President George H. W. Bush then issued Proclamation 6045 on October 12, 1989, officially proclaiming the observance. Congress again designated October as Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month in 1994, establishing the designation annually. Both Italian Heritage Month and Columbus Day continue to be observed through parades, cultural celebrations, educational programs, and community events across the country.

The replacement of Columbus Day, the removal of Columbus monuments, and changing the name of Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month are examples of ethnocultural-cide, the deliberate destruction and eradication of Italian-American heritage and culture from public life.

Next Board of Directors Meeting Set

The next IADL board of directors meeting will take place in the Lucy Hammer Room at James Blackstone Memorial Library in Branford, Connecticut on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 6 pm. Please reply if you would like to attend. There is limited seating, and any IADL member is welcome.

This Week in Italian-American History

October 3, 1965 - President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 at the Statue of Liberty. The law abolished the national-origins quota system that had severely restricted immigration from Southern and Eastern Europe. The new law contributed to renewed immigration from Italy and other parts of the world.

October 4, 1582 - The Gregorian calendar was introduced in Catholic countries, including Italy, replacing the Julian calendar. October 4 was followed by October 15th that year as the calendar was adjusted by ten days. October 4 is also the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.

October 4, 1839 - The first railway in the Italian states opened between Naples and Portici, covering approximately five miles. It marked the beginning of Italy's modern railway system.

October 5, 1658 - Maria Beatrice d'Este, an Italian princess from Modena, was born on this date. She later became Queen of England, Scotland and Ireland through her marriage to James II.

October 6, 1600 - Jacopo Peri's Euridice was performed in Florence. It is generally regarded as the earliest surviving opera.

October 7, 1571 - The Battle of Lepanto was fought between the Holy League and the Ottoman fleet. The Christian fleet's victory was an important event in Mediterranean history and involved naval forces and sailors from several Italian states, including Venice and Genoa.

October 9, 1963 - A massive landslide entered the reservoir behind the Vajont Dam in northern Italy, creating a wave that devastated communities in the valley below. Nearly 2,000 people died.

October 10, 1922 - Fifteen Italian Americans led by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola founded UNICO National in Waterbury, Connecticut. The organization was created to promote charitable works, higher education, patriotism, and service to the community. UNICO describes itself as the largest Italian-American service organization in the United States.

Italian Heritage News & Culture

Italy spoils Zidane's France homecoming, cancel out Olise's stunner - Sports

Italy once again proved a formidable foe for Zinedine Zidane, securing a 1-1 draw in Zidane's home debut as France coach Friday.

Sylvester Stallone on Rocky's connection to the Italian American community - Celebrity Culture

Sylvester Stallone unpacks "Rocky's impact on the Italian American community.

Suffolk County officials announce a new Italian-American museum opening on Long Island - Arts & Culture

Suffolk County, Long Island is home to roughly 320,000 Italian-Americans, the most in any one county in the country.

Italian American Events

Rocky Hill, Connecticut – Italian Festival

October 4th. - The ItaliAmerica Annual Festa takes place at Elm Ridge Park in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, on Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, 2026. Presented by Connecticut Mason Contractors, Inc. and organized by the Italian American Historical Society of Connecticut, Inc., this family-friendly, free-admission cultural celebration features a vibrant selection of authentic food trucks, local retail vendors, and cultural activities. Attendees can enjoy live music and entertainment on the main stage throughout the weekend, including a Saturday evening performance by Diva and the Playboys. A fabulous Italian Culture Tent will be presented by The Italian American Historic Society of the Ethnic Center at SCSU.

Italian Language Classes

October 5th- Since 1981, the ICS Italian Language School has used a proven curriculum to help students speak and understand Italian in a fun, no-stress atmosphere. Registration is now open for the Fall 2026 Quarter, which begins the week of October 5, 2026. REGISTER HERE. FOR TEXTBOOKS, CLICK HERE. Go to www.italiancenter.net for more information.

New Britain, Connecticut – Columbus Day Ceremony

October 12th -There will be a Columbus Day ceremony at the statue in McCabe Park in New Britain on Monday, October 12th at 11:00 a.m. OSDIA’s New Britain lodge will host the event celebrating and honoring our immigrant ancestors and also our Italian American veterans. Representatives from the City of New Britain and other local Italian American organizations will participate in the ceremony.

Council of Italian American Societies of Greater Bridgeport Events

October 4th – Italian Mass at St. Margaret’s Shrine, followed by wreath laying ceremony at Seaside Park and Flag Raising at Circolo Sportivio

October 9th & 10th – 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band at the Klein – Free Concert

October 11th – Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade

UNICO Stamford Italian Heritage Month in Connecticut

October 1st-31st; “Italian Contributions to the World” Exhibit; Main Lobby, Ferguson Library

October 11th; COLUMBUS DAY ITALIAN MASS, 10 AM, Sacred Heart Church

October 11th; FLAG RAISING AND COLUMBUS DAY CELEBRATION, 11:30am, Columbus Park

October 16th; Italian Film Festival, “Life is Beautiful”, Ferguson Library (Sponsored by AVON), Free viewing time 6:30-9pm

October 17th, Children's Craft Event: Venetian Masks, Ferguson Library, Free 11 am. Register on Ferguson website

October 18th, Luigi Del Bianco, Chief Carver Mt. Rushmore Lecture, Ferguson Library, Free 2 pm

October 19th through October 23rd Italian Heritage Exhibit, CT State Community College Norwalk Lobby 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 20th; Viewing of Cinema Paradiso, 3pm CT State Community College Norwalk Theater, 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 23rd; Italian Film Festival, “Moonstruck”, Ferguson Library (Sponsored by AVON), Free viewing time 6:30-9pm

October 24th; “ Settefrati, Our Sister City” Harry Bennett Branch of Ferguson Library, FREE 2 pm – 3:30 pm

October 24th – UNICO's Annual Italian Heritage Night at the Hartford Athletic Soccer Stadium, 7pm Home match. TAILGATE in the parking lot. 5pm. Contact MaryJoan 860-805-2139

October 25th; Gardening Event (including growing tips, recipe and seed exchange) at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Rd. $20 museum “Fall Event” entrance fee, 10am – 1pm

Italian American Alliance Event

American Italian Women of Greater New Haven

Legal Fund

Donate to IADL using this link. Zeffy charges NO FEES! 100% of your donations will go to the Italian-American Defense League.

Stay in Touch

Website: https://iadlnow.org/

X: https://x.com/IADLPresident

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iadlnow/?hl=en

Member of COPOMIAO: https://copomiao.org/

Buy some merchandise in our online store!

Now is the time!

Columbus began a new age in world history comparable to the first moon landing.

IADL Newsletter

IADL Newsletter – September 27, 2026 – Columbus, A Valued Part of Italian Heritage

Often Italian Americans are asked the question: Why should we celebrate Christopher Columbus when there are so many other Italians we can honor? No doubt, there are many people of Italian descent that have made major contributions to the human race, past and present. Though there are many individuals to honor, there is no one better than Christopher Columbus. Columbus was a faithful man of modest circumstances from the Italian peninsula. He waited almost his entire life to have the privilege of sailing as a trusted servant of Queen Isabella. He sought to spread Catholicism, set-up trade posts with the Grand Khan of Asia, and earn respect for his family’s name. Because his discovery united the entire world and began what we call today’s globalization, millions of immigrants seeking a better life had and will have the opportunity to become Americans – all because of the courage, knowledge, and vision of one man. As an Italian-American, I am humbled to have my Italian identity associated with the origins of America’s founding. This article from a few years ago is still relevant today. Read more about how Columbus brought the world together, here.

Next Board of Directors Meeting Set

This Week in Italian American History

October 1 - Italian-American Heritage Month begins
The federal government officially recognizes October as Italian-American Heritage Month. The month recognizes the contributions and achievements of Italian immigrants and their descendants in American life.

October 1 - Commemorating “The Italian Immigrant”
The first day of Italian-American Heritage Month honors the immigrant experience itself: leaving Italy, establishing communities in America, maintaining traditions, and gradually developing an Italian-American identity.

October 2 - Amadeo Pietro Giannini (1870–1949)
The Italian-American Collective designates October 2 to honor Amadeo Pietro Giannini, founder of the Bank of Italy, which became Bank of America. Giannini pioneered banking practices designed to make credit accessible to ordinary working people and immigrants.

October 3 - Guglielmo Marconi (1874–1937)
October 3 is designated to honor Guglielmo Marconi, the Italian inventor and radio pioneer. His experiments with wireless transmission helped establish the foundations of modern radio communications. His achievement represents the international influence of Italian scientific and technological innovation.

Italian Heritage News & Culture

Register for this Week’s Solidarity Session with IAOVC and Native American Guardian’s Association – Register Here - Online Event
Solidarity Session on Zoom– Tuesday, September 29th at 8PM . The guest speaker is Chief Brown of the Cheroenhaka Indian tribe of Virginia. He is seeking assistance in having his tribal nation officially recognized.

Jozee believes she is “Who God Says I Am’ – Italian-American gospel singer set to drop album on October 6 - Music

Growing up around her parents’ Sicilian restaurant, she absorbed everything from Stevie Wonder and Frank Sinatra to Pavarotti, Led Zeppelin, Barbara Streisand and Bob Marley.

Enjoy a dramatization of Christopher Columbus petitioning Spain's king and queen for three ships - Culture

At first, Ferdinand and Isabella rejected Columbus's petition, but Isabella granted it at last, and three ships were built—the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María.

Italy ministers agree to ban burqa and niqab in school and cap foreigners in class- Politics

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the measures as "common-sense tools that do not divide but really help to integrate".

Milan’s airport is officially named after former Premier Berlusconi- Politics

It took over two years and some legal wrangling, but Italy’s second-busiest passenger airport was finally named on Friday after the late former Premier Silvio Berlusconi.

Ties Between Florence and Providence Take a New Step Forward with a Concert in Italy

70 years ago, when the United States - and Rhode Island - came together to help provide aid to Italians in need, it blossomed into a formal relationship between Providence and Florence

Italian American Events

Rocky Hill, Connecticut – Italian Festival

October 3rd & 4th. - The ItaliAmerica Annual Festa takes place at Elm Ridge Park in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, on Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, 2026. Presented by Connecticut Mason Contractors, Inc. and organized by the Italian American Historical Society of Connecticut, Inc., this family-friendly, free-admission cultural celebration features a vibrant selection of authentic food trucks, local retail vendors, and cultural activities. Attendees can enjoy live music and entertainment on the main stage throughout the weekend, including a Saturday evening performance by Diva and the Playboys. A fabulous Italian Culture Tent will be presented by The Italian American Historic Society of the Ethnic Center at SCSU.

Italian Language Classes

New Britain, Connecticut – Columbus Day Ceremony

Council of Italian American Societies of Greater Bridgeport Events

October 4th – Italian Mass at St. Margaret’s Shrine, followed by wreath laying ceremony at Seaside Park and Flag Raising at Circolo Sportivio

October 9th & 10th – 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band at the Klein – Free Concert

October 11th – Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade

UNICO Stamford Italian Heritage Month in Connecticut

October 1st-31st; “Italian Contributions to the World” Exhibit; Main Lobby, Ferguson Library

October 2nd; Federazione Laziali d'America Wine Tasting Contest, 7pm (doors open 6:30) $10 at Italian Center of Stamford 1620 Newfield Ave

October 3rd; "Cooking with Maria from Columbus Park Trattoria" Cooking Demonstration, Ferguson Library, 11 am FREE, register On Ferguson website

October 11th; COLUMBUS DAY ITALIAN MASS, 10 AM, Sacred Heart Church

October 11th; FLAG RAISING AND COLUMBUS DAY CELEBRATION, 11:30am, Columbus Park

October 16th; Italian Film Festival, “Life is Beautiful”, Ferguson Library (Sponsored by AVON), Free viewing time 6:30-9pm

October 17th, Children's Craft Event: Venetian Masks, Ferguson Library, Free 11 am. Register on Ferguson website

October 18th, Luigi Del Bianco, Chief Carver Mt. Rushmore Lecture, Ferguson Library, Free 2 pm

October 19th through October 23rd Italian Heritage Exhibit, CT State Community College Norwalk Lobby 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 20th; Viewing of Cinema Paradiso, 3pm CT State Community College Norwalk Theater, 188 Richards Ave, Norwalk

October 23rd; Italian Film Festival, “Moonstruck”, Ferguson Library (Sponsored by AVON), Free viewing time 6:30-9pm

October 24th; “ Settefrati, Our Sister City” Harry Bennett Branch of Ferguson Library, FREE 2 pm – 3:30 pm

October 24th – UNICO's Annual Italian Heritage Night at the Hartford Athletic Soccer Stadium, 7pm Home match. TAILGATE in the parking lot. 5pm. Contact MaryJoan 860-805-2139

Italian American Alliance Event

American Italian Women of Greater New Haven

Legal Fund

IADL has 219 members and 51 newsletter subscribers. With una voce, we can be heard! You can contribute to this GoFundMe or Zeffy (no fees) to fund our efforts to return the Columbus monument to Wooster Square in New Haven. Donate to IADL using this link. Zeffy charges NO FEES! 100% of your donations will go to the Italian-American Defense League.

Stay in Touch

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Member of COPOMIAO: https://copomiao.org/

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Now is the time!

Christopher Columbus monument as it looked in 2020 before its unjust removal in New Haven, CT

IADL Newsletter

IADL Newsletter – September 20, 2026 – Injustice Unifies 1892 Italians in Connecticut

Italian immigrants in the late nineteenth century based their cultural identities on their paese, or little village, they left behind in Italy. They thought of themselves not simply as Italians, but as Neapolitans, Sicilians, Calabrians, or wherever they came from in their homeland. No matter where these new immigrants originated, events in America began to forge them into a new Italian American identity. The hostility and discrimination directed at Italian immigrants in America from the newly formed Kingdom of Italy created a shared experience in the United States.

Right here in Connecticut, news of violence against Italians in other locations in the country resonated deeply within the Wooster Square neighborhood of New Haven, sometimes referred to as little Naples. The lynchings of eleven Italians in New Orleans in 1891 ignited Italian immigrants from different towns in Italy to unite under the umbrella called United Italian Societies. After a meeting of Italian community leaders took place in 1891, plans were developed to not only respond to the New Orleans lynchings that created an international diplomatic crisis between the United States and Italy, but also the discrimination and injustice that Italians faced every day of their lives in Connecticut.

New Haven's Italian community responded not only with protest, but with public participation and activism. These united Italians responded to the events in New Orleans by organizing an extraordinary Columbus Day celebration in 1892 involving Italian societies from throughout Connecticut and financing the creation of the Columbus monument in Wooster Square. The monument was more than a statue honoring the great Italian explorer; it represented the ability of Italian immigrants, many of whom had arrived with strong regional identities, to come together around a shared heritage and publicly created a bond between immigrants and their adopted country.

Read “Italians and Blacks in New Haven: The Establishment of Two Ethnic Communities” by Alice Mick and Lula White to learn more about how Italian immigrants in 1892 responded to the March 14, 1891 lynchings of eleven Italians in New Orleans by financing and dedicating a Christopher Columbus monument a year later, which united Italians in Connecticut.

This Week in Italian American History

September 21, 1924 — Italy opens what is generally recognized as the world's first modern motorway, the Milano–Varese autostrada, designed by engineer Piero Puricelli.

September 22, 1903 — Italo Marchioni files his ice-cream-cup patent application making edible ice-cream cups, a precursor to the modern ice cream cone.

September 23, 63 BC — Gaius Octavius, later known as Augustus Caesar, was born on September 23, 63 BC. He became Rome's first emperor, ruling from 27 BC until his death in AD 14, marking the beginning of the Roman Empire.

September 23, 1943 — During the German occupation of Italy, Vice Brigadier Salvo D'Acquisto of the Carabinieri was executed after offering himself in place of 22 innocent hostages. Italy later awarded him the Gold Medal of Military Valor.

September 24, 1501 — Renaissance mathematician, physician and philosopher Gerolamo Cardano was born in Pavia. His Ars Magna (1545) became a landmark work in algebra and included the solution of the cubic equation as well as the solution of the quartic equation developed by his student Lodovico Ferrari.

September 25, 1896 — Born on this date, Alessandro "Sandro" Pertini eventually became Italy's seventh president. He was born at Stella in Liguria. He became a prominent anti-Fascist.

September 25, 1917 — Italian-American baseball legend Phil Rizzuto was born on this date in Brooklyn. Phil "The Scooter" Rizzuto had family roots in Calabria. He became a star shortstop for the New York Yankees, winning the 1950 American League MVP Award, and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994. He later became a successful broadcaster.

September 26, 1986 — Antonin Scalia, the son of Italian immigrants, took the oath of office as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court on September 26, 1986. He had been confirmed by the Senate 98–0 and served on the Court until his death in 2016.

September 26, 1997 — A powerful earthquake struck central Italy, severely damaging the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Parts of the basilica's frescoes collapsed, which led to a major restoration effort.

Italian Heritage News & Culture

Basil Russo Leads Historic Summit Between Italian American Leaders and Pope Leo XIV
The COPOMIAO Delegation held a meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Italy, an exclusive conference with Cardinal Parolin, and high-level talks with Italian leaders in courts and the parliament.

The Italian American Connection Index 2026

We the Italians is launching a survey about a question for the future of the Italian American community: how strong is its connection with Italy today? Take the survey by clicking the link above.

Italian Fest crowd weighs in on Columbus monument debate

Festival goers give their opinion about reimagining the space where Syracuse’s Columbus monument continues to stand today.

I'm an American mom raising 2 kids in Italy. Parenting here is completely different.

“Over the years, I've noticed that children in Italy seem to have more freedom, and their parents are less likely to monitor their every move.” - Caroline Chirichella

Italian American Events

Norwalk, Connecticut – San Gennaro Festival

September 26, 2026 – Come for food and music from 12 – 7PM at All Saints Catholic School, located at 139 West Rocks Road, Norwalk, CT. The rain date is 9/27. Go to this All Saints School website for more information.

Rocky Hill, Connecticut – Italian Festival

October 3rd & 4th. - The ItaliAmerica Annual Festa takes place at Elm Ridge Park in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, on Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, 2026. Presented by Connecticut Mason Contractors, Inc. and organized by the Italian American Historical Society of Connecticut, Inc., this family-friendly, free-admission cultural celebration features a vibrant selection of authentic food trucks, local retail vendors, and cultural activities. Attendees can enjoy live music and entertainment on the main stage throughout the weekend, including a Saturday evening performance by Diva and the Playboys. A fabulous Italian Culture Tent will be presented by The Italian American Historic Society of the Ethnic Center at SCSU.

Italian Language Classes

New Britain, Connecticut – Columbus Day Ceremony