IADL Newsletter

September 24, 2023

We cannot rely on the government anymore! During the twentieth century, Italian immigrants welcomed federal, state, and local government endorsements of Columbus Day and Italian heritage events. Today, government officials are either attacking or ignoring us. That is why . . . NOW IS THE TIME for us to become ambassadors of our own heritage. We MUST support Columbus Day and statues, or Italian heritage will be LOST and FORGOTTEN. American traditions are becoming replaced, and it is in our control as IADL members to commemorate and celebrate American traditions. A trusted IADL member shared this idea with me and now I am sharing it with you.

Enjoy a Thimble Island cruise to kick off Italian-American Heritage Month. Meet IADL members, their families, and friends who value Italian heritage and American traditions as we mingle and listen to a narrated tour.

The private charter Sea Mist has a heated seating area and holds all passengers. The ship will depart Stony Creek in Branford, CT and circle the Thimble Islands. Our goal is to bring people of Italian descent together in a second annual Italian unity event. While onboard, be sure to take a picture with IADL’s 6-foot cardboard cut-out of Christopher Columbus.

When? Sunday, October 1st. Boarding: 3:45. Departure: 4:00. Return: 6:00. Location: 4 Indian Point Rd, Branford, CT 06405.

Purchase Tickets Here: $30 per person. Grab-and-go meal included (sandwich, chips, cookie, bottled water), NO BYOB - cash bar

Promote Education

Italian-American Defense League contacted the Connecticut Association of Public Schools Superintendents. IADL asked CAPSS’s executive director to share Italian heritage curriculum links with superintendents across the state. Currently the curricular resource is under review by CAPSS and links to it may be included in the director’s communications to all superintendents this week. The curriculum was created by New Jersey’s Italian Heritage Commission and Rutgers University. COPOMIAO endorses the curriculum and encourages its use across the United States.

Portray Italians Positively

In response to the New York City Council’s proposal to remove the city’s Columbus statues last week, Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni visited Columbus Circle for a ceremony to rebuke the city council members’ attack on the 131-year-old monument, along with their attack on statues of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. A committee mirroring George Orwell’s "thought police” is reviewing 2.500 pieces of art for removal including works representing Columbus. Meloni’s office gave this statement, “Through this important reaffirmation of identity, the President celebrated a symbol of the cultural and moral history of the American people.” Read ISDA’s article about Meloni’s visit, here. Or read the New York Post’s perspective on Meloni’s surprise visit.

Preserve Traditions

Italian-American Defense League warned that if the masses do not defend Christopher Columbus and Columbus Day, Thanksgiving and the founding fathers would be next, because the people who attack Columbus consider him an icon of American exceptionalism and Christianity. New York’s city council is proving IADL correct. Read this article that explains how, instead of solving the many problems of New York City, the city council is spending its time attacking art and monuments. And read the reactions of New York Post readers in response to the city council’s insane agenda. In response to the council, one Long Island town says it will accept all removed statues. Lastly, read this rebuke of the city council that makes this claim in addition to others, “It helps the radicals among them impose versions of the past that support otherwise ludicrous policies — such as cash reparations for slavery. That’s also on the council’s to-do list, and it represents a particularly egregious historical distortion given New York’s actual role in the antebellum abolition movement and the Civil War itself.”

Upcoming Events:

Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Italian-American Hall of Fame announced “An Evening of Laughter Honoring Jay Leno & Rhode Island’s Best and Brightest” on September 27, 2023 at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Jay Leno will perform his 75-minute stand-up comedy routine. For more information go to this website or order tickets at PPACRI.org .

During Festa Italiana, Newport is holding a ceremony to honor its Columbus statue on October 9, 2023, the 70th anniversary of the Italian heritage monument

Rocky Hill, CT

Hartford and Wethersfield UNICO are revitalizing their Italian Festa which used to be held in Hartford for many years. It will take place on Saturday, September 30, 2023 from noon – 6PM at Elm Ridge Park in Rocky Hill.

Hamden, CT

October 7, 12:15-5:45 PM, Italian-American Heritage Festival. Click here for more information.

Bridgeport, CT

The Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade is scheduled for October 8, 2023 at noon on Madison Avenue in Bridgeport’s North End. Learn more about the parade, festival, and all its events in September and October on the parade’s website here.

Stamford, CT Italian Heritage Month Events

OCTOBER 7-8 The Italian Street Festival, Mill River Park, 12-9 PM

OCTOBER 8, Sunday UNICO Annual Columbus Day Ceremony, 10:00 am Mass at Sacred Heart Church; Procession to Columbus Park to follow, 11:30 am Ceremony at Columbus Park; Raising of Flags

OCTOBER 12: 6:30 PM, Seminar and Exhibit Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Sacred Heart Church and The History of Italians in Stamford, Lower Level of Sacred Heart Church. Refreshments to follow.

Hartford, CT

Friday, October 13, 2023 is Hartford UNICO’s night at the Hartford Athletics soccer stadium. Admission to the home game is $15. It would be great to have IADL members support our friends in Hartford. You can contact Peter Petrella for tickets by emailing peterpetrella@gmail.com . If you would like to attend as an IADL group, email iadlnow@yahoo.com .

More Stamford events

OCTOBER 15 to 30, Ferguson Library, Main Lobby, Sacred Heart Church Exhibit Display

OCTOBER 19, 6:30 PM Seminar Repeat Presentation, Ferguson Library Main Level Reading Room

IADL ANNUAL MEETING, Guilford, CT

Italian-American Defense League’s Annual Meeting is Monday, November 13, 2023 at 7 PM. All IADL members are welcome to attend. RSVP in advance. The meeting location is 1570 Suite 300, Boston Post Rd, Guilford, CT, 06437. A ZOOM link will also be available to attend virtually. Join IADL’s Board of Directors! During Year 4, we need directors to plan events, attend meetings, communicate regularly, recruit new members, assist with fundraising, and read IADL’s weekly newsletter.

Italian-American Defense League is a 501(c)4 nonprofit charity and social welfare organization. The primary purpose of the Italian-American Defense League (IADL) is to promote mutual cooperation among its members, reinforce social welfare ideals with community involvement, and preserve the historical significance and achievements of Italian Americans. The IADL’s secondary purpose is to serve as a lobbying and advocacy group to local, state, or federal authorities and the private sector on matters of interest to Italian Americans.

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

September 17, 2023

For the second week, IADL invites you to an exciting social that is different than your typical Italian heritage event. Attending this event will support IADL and its efforts to promote education, portray Italians positively, and preserve traditions. Anyone receiving this invite has shown past support in honoring Italian heritage and American traditions. Now let's get together again. Order tickets for family members or friends interested in our cause.

Enjoy a Thimble Islands narrated private charter cruise (2 hrs.). The indoor heated (if necessary) seating area holds all passengers as we circle the famous Thimble Islands near Stony Creek in Branford, CT. Our goal is to bring people of Italian descent together in a second annual Italian unity event.

When? Sunday, October 1st. Boarding: 3:45. Departure: 4:00. Return: 6:00. Location: 4 Indian Point Rd, Branford, CT 06405.

Purchase Tickets Here: $30 per person. Grab-and-go meal included (sandwich, chips, cookie, bottled water), NO BYOB - cash bar

Promote Education

In preparation for Columbus Day, IADL shares video shorts from the Knights of Columbus website that explain the history of Columbus Day and Columbus himself. Furthermore, the video clips dispel lies and myths against the great explorer, and answer the following questions, or you can watch “Courage and Conviction: The True Story of Columbus” in its entirety.

Should we continue to Celebrate Columbus Day?
Did Christopher Columbus introduce the slave trade to the Americas?
Is Columbus Day a holiday that celebrates white privilege?
Should Columbus Day be replaced and Columbus statues taken down?
Did Christopher Columbus commit genocide against the Indigenous peoples of America?
Was Christopher Columbus nothing but a greedy opportunist?

Portray Italians Positively

The National Italian American Foundation in a partnership with the city of Genoa agreed to promote cultural ties between communities in both countries. Most recently, the National Museum of Italian Emigration opened in Genoa as the sister to Ellis Island, which tells the story of Italians from days of the exodus of Italians after unification to modern day patterns of emigration after the formation of the European Union. Read more about the new museum which strengthens the bond of Italian Americans to Genoa in a new way.

Preserve Traditions

During Festa Italiana, Newport is holding a ceremony to honor its Columbus statue on October 9, 2023, the 70th anniversary of the Italian heritage monument. Coincidently, as I read this article about the history of the statue, which was erected on October 12, 1953, I realized that the foundry that made the bronze statue is by the Marinelli foundry in Italy. Last week, an article was included in the IADL newsletter about the Marinelli brothers in Italy who are still carrying on the tradition. IADL contacted a Newport committee representative to inquire about the link.

Upcoming Events:

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

September 10, 2023

You are invited!

Meet like-minded people during this social, who want to honor Italian-American heritage while enjoying a Thimble Islands narrated cruise (2 hrs.). IADL would like to say THANK YOU to our supporters and members. The indoor heated (if necessary) seating area holds all passengers as we circle the famous Thimble Islands near Stony Creek in Branford, CT. Our goal is to bring people of Italian descent together in a second annual Italian unity event.

When? Sunday, October 1st. Boarding: 3:45. Departure: 4:00. Return 6:00. Location: 4 Indian Point Rd, Branford, CT 06405.

Purchase Tickets Here: $30 per person. Grab-and-go meal included (sandwich, chips, cookie, bottled water), NO BYOB - cash bar

We look forward to sharing a good time among friends. October is Italian Heritage and Culture month. Let's set to the sea to start our celebration. To learn more about the history of the Thimble Islands, read this article.

Promote Education

IADL, in collaboration with COPOMIAO and Cav. Gilda Rorro, Ed.D., would like you to copy the following letter and share it with your local school board and superintendent of schools.

In preparation of Italian and Hispanic American Heritage Months in October, would you like educators in your school district to receive a new, innovative tool to stimulate critical and analytical thinking about complex issues in society?

If so, the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission (NJIHC) is pleased to offer its “An Italian’s Dream: Leads to the Origin of the Hispanic Peoples and Beyond” video series. The focus is on immigration from the 15th century Age of Exploration and Discovery, to the present.

This unique curriculum infusion model provides an equitable, diverse, and inclusive approach to teaching/learning about the four voyages of Christopher Columbus, his encounter with the New World, and subsequent colonization with the Indigenous people, thus leading to the creation of the Hispanic people, and current immigration issues. The carefully researched material presents information regarding these world-changing events—both good and bad and allows students to arrive at their own conclusions.

The video series was developed by the NJIHC Curriculum Development Committee, at the New Jersey Department of Education (DOE), meeting all its standards, with Kevin T. Brady, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Hibernian Global Education Initiative, Inc. The series is a component of “The Universality of Italian Heritage” curriculum. “An Italian’s Dream” is available FREE of Charge, by clicking on this link: www.njitalianheritage.org.

Teachers will be able to enhance their instruction throughout the school year with the use of the video above. They also have an opportunity to share their outcomes by presenting them as “Best Practices” at the NJIHC spring Conference 2024.

For questions or comments regarding the video, please contact Curriculum Committee Chairperson, Cav. Gilda Rorro Ed.D. at: 609.587.7000, or NJIHC Chairperson Robert DiBiase, at: 732.547.8799. Your attention to this request would be greatly appreciated.

Portray Italians Positively

“Hands aren’t just for typing and texting, but for creating,” says Pasquale Marinelli, a bell artisan in Italy. Pasquale and his brother Armando are the 26th generation of a family who has been crafting handmade bells since the middle ages. Pouring scalding-hot liquid metal into carefully designed molds, the two sweat over glowing embers, working with 10 centuries worth of knowledge in order to spread a medieval chime around the world.” Keep reading about these brothers who carry on the family tradition of forging bells for the past 1,000 years.

Preserve Traditions

Tommy Damigella is a friend of the IADL and chairman of the strategic planning committee of the Italian American Alliance. In this video interview with Primo Magazine, Damigella updates us about two bills and a ballot initiative in Massachusetts that seek to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day. You can subscribe to Primo’s YouTube channel when you watch this video interview.

Upcoming Events:

Celebrate and honor Italian-American heritage at an event near you. Choose at least one! Don’t forget to RSVP to attend IADL’s Annual Meeting on November 13, 2023.

Today, September 10, 2023, is Festa Italiana in New Britian, CT. Go to 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT to enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Italian-American Defense League’s Annual Meeting is Monday, November 13, 2023 at 7 PM. All IADL members are welcome to attend. RSVP in advance. The meeting location is 1570 Suite 300, Boston Post Rd, Guilford, CT, 06437. A ZOOM link will also be available to attend virtually. Join IADL’s Board of Directors! During Year 4, we need directors to plan events, attend meetings, communicate regularly, recruit new members, assist with fundraising, and read IADL’s weekly newsletter.

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

September 3, 2023

Each newsletter begins with an introduction and updates about the Italian-American Defense league. This includes the most important information regarding your membership and involvement. Next are three sections that match our mission: Promote Education, Portray Italians Positively, and Preserve Traditions. Each section includes a brief description and link. The letter ends with a list of upcoming events.

IADL is planning a special event for Sunday, October 1, 2023. Expect an email later this week describing this event including an online link to purchase tickets.

Promote Education

This week, IADL will continue sharing New Jersey’s Italian Heritage curriculum’s unit “An Italian Dream Leads to the Origins of the Hispanic People and Beyond.” Watch Lesson 4 which is called “The 8 Ates of Immigration.” The lesson compares the immigration of Puerto Ricans and Hispanics to that of earlier Italian immigrants. To learn more about the “ates” of immigration, watch this video for teachers planning for instruction.

Portray Italians Positively

New Italian-American Defense League member Dan Panzarella describes his experiences as a person of Italian descent in this heart-warming account. I couldn’t help but relate his experiences to my own. When we tell our individual stories, together they make “Our Italian Story.” Enjoy this short and powerful YouTube video. It is truly a work of poetry.

Remember to share your Italian story with us! Write 400 words or less and include a photo. We’ll post it on our website. Or if you would like to create a video account, please email iadlnow@yahoo.com.

Preserve Traditions

Author Rafael Ortiz, an advocate for Christopher Columbus and Columbus Day, is not Italian, but is of Puerto Rican descent. Ortiz considers Columbus a hero after researching the explorer by reading primary source documents written in Spanish. Last year, IADL was privileged to host Ortiz in a live interview via ZOOM for IADL members and guests. Today, view his latest interview with Primo Magazine. This video is worth the time to watch.

Upcoming Events:

Celebrate and honor Italian-American heritage at an event near you. Choose at least one! Don’t forget to RSVP to attend IADL’s Annual Meeting on November 13, 2023.

A special invitation for our local COPOMIAO members. Please share with friends and family. Join the New York Yankees beginning September 5 through September 10 as we celebrate Italian Heritage for select games during the 2023 regular season! Every ticket purchased comes with a special New York Yankees hat with an Italian flag, a hot dog and a drink! Purchase tickets while they last.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

The Rhode Island Italian-American Hall of Fame announced “An Evening of Laughter Honoring Jay Leno & Rhode Island’s Best and Brightest” on September 27, 2023 at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Jay Leno will perform his 75-minute stand-up comedy routine. For more information go to this website or order tickets at PPACRI.org .

Hartford and Wethersfield UNICO are revitalizing their Italian Festa which used to be held in Hartford for many years. It will take place on Saturday, September 30, 2023 from noon – 6PM at Elm Ridge Park in Rocky Hill.

The Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade is scheduled for October 8, 2023 at noon on Madison Avenue in Bridgeport’s North End. Learn more about the parade, festival, and all its events in September and October on the parade’s website here.

Friday, October 13, 2023 is Hartford UNICO’s night at the Hartford Athletics soccer stadium. Admission to the home game is $15. I would be great to have IADL members support our friends in Hartford. You can contact Peter Petrella for tickets by emailing peterpetrella@gmail.com . If you would like to attend as an IADL group, email iadlnow@yahoo.com .

Italian-American Defense League’s Annual Meeting is Monday, November 13, 2023 at 7 PM. All IADL members are welcome to attend. RSVP in advance. The meeting location is 1570 Suite 300, Boston Post Rd, Guilford, CT, 06437. A ZOOM link will also be available to attend virtually. Join IADL’s Board of Directors! During Year 4, we need directors to plan events, attend meetings, communicate regularly, recruit new members, assist with fundraising, and read IADL’s weekly newsletter.

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

August 27, 2023

Each newsletter begins with an introduction and updates about Italian-American Defense league. This includes the most important information regarding your membership and involvement. Next are three sections that match our mission: Promote Education, Portray Italians Positively, and Preserve Traditions. Each section includes a brief description and link. The letter ends with a list of upcoming events.

Most IADL members joined because they believe in preserving Columbus Day as an Italian-American tradition and wish to restore Columbus statues to their rightful places. There is no better way to honor Columbus as an Italian-American tradition than participating in the Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade. Let’s make our presence known and honor our heritage with a group of 20 or more on October 8, 2023. RSVP by September 2, 2023 and include your t-shirt size. Family and friends are welcome (If they are participating, we need their t-shirt sizes, too). We will place an order for the t-shirts soon.

Promote Education

This week, IADL will continue sharing New Jersey’s Italian Heritage curriculum’s unit “An Italian Dream Leads to the Origins of the Hispanic People and Beyond.” Watch Lesson 3 which is called “La Nueva Raza – Origins of the Hispanic People.”

Portray Italians Positively

Italian singer and songwriter Toto Cutugno died at age 80 after battling an illness. Cutugno is famous for singing many popular hits and as a songwriter for many artists. Read this CNN article here. Listen to Cutugno’s 20 greatest hits at this link. Watch the official video of L’Italiano.

Preserve Traditions

Drinking cappuccino and espresso are a favorite pastime of Italian Americans. Often an American will order a cappuccino with dessert in America. However, the same action in Italia is a sure sign the person is a tourist. Do it and you may receive a scowl from your server. Read this article and watch a social media influencer who asks, “Would you eat a hot dog for breakfast?” Then don’t order a cappuccino after noon!

Upcoming Events:

Celebrate and honor Italian-American heritage at an event near you. Choose at least one! Don’t forget to RSVP to attend IADL’s Annual Meeting on November 13, 2023.

The 2nd annual Danbury San Gennaro Festival is back and BIGGER than before. This FREE 5-day event will be filled with delicious food, music, games, entertainment, everything you can ever ask for! Get ready to say CIAO and PREGO today, Sunday, August 27th from 1-10PM. The event takes place at Danbury CityCenter Green, 1 Ives Street, Danbury, CT 06810.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Save the Date! Hartford and Wethersfield UNICO are revitalizing their Italian Festa which used to be held in Hartford for many years. It will take place on Saturday, September 30, 2023 from noon – 6PM at Elm Ridge Park in Rocky Hill.

The Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade is scheduled for October 8, 2023 on Madison Avenue in Bridgeport’s North End. Learn more about the parade and festival and all events in June, July, August, September, and October on the parade’s website here.

Friday, October 13, 2023 is Hartford UNICO’s night at the Hartford Athletics soccer stadium. Admission to the home game is $15. I would be great to have IADL members support our friends in Hartford. You can contact Peter Petrella for tickets by emailing peterpetrella@gmail.com . If you would like to attend as an IADL group, email iadlnow@yahoo.com .

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

August 20, 2023

Italian-American Defense League received airtime on the Vinnie Penn Radio Show on WELI 960. We discussed Christopher Columbus and IADL’s efforts to restore the Columbus statue in Wooster Square in New Haven. After the show aired, Penn combined our segment and one other. We appreciate having the opportunity to share our perspective. Listen here. Did you know this fun fact? Penn’s family name is Pennacchini.

Join IADL’s Board of Directors

During Year 4, IADL’s new board will seek to create new bonds. Email iadlnow@yahoo.com to express your interest or ask questions. Board members will:

Plan and participate in events
Attend director’s meetings
Communicate regularly
Recruit new members
Assist with fundraising
Read IADL’s weekly newsletter

We need walkers in Bridgeport’s Columbus Day Parade. Let’s make our presence known and honor our heritage with a group of 20 or more on October 8, 2023. RSVP and include your t-shirt size. Family and friends are welcome (If they are participating, we need their t-shirt sizes, too). We will place an order for the t-shirts soon.

Promote Education

This week, IADL will continue sharing New Jersey’s Italian Heritage curriculum’s unit “An Italian Dream Leads to the Origins of the Hispanic People and Beyond.” Lesson 2 is called “The Man Who Changed the World Forever.” Watch this examination of the Admiral of the Ocean Sea and explore other instructional resources related to the lesson.

Portray Italians Positively

This week IADL shares good news that portrays pizza positively. Italian scientists conducted research that shows that eating Italian pizza has health benefits, including a positive effect on rheumatoid arthritis. Keep in mind that pizza in Italy is made with fresh ingredients and olive oil, which is healthier than the American version. Read an article that describes this tasty news here. For further information, access the entire research study using this link.

Preserve Traditions

Who is San Gennaro? Every year we hear the name of festivals named in the saint’s honor, but did you know his body is preserved In Naples? Read about San Gennaro’s story and the history of The Feast of San Gennaro in New York City. The NYC feast will be held from September 14 – 24 on Mulberry Street in Little Italy. Watch this YouTube video describing the history of the saint and the festival.

Upcoming Events:

Celebrate and honor Italian-American heritage at an event near you. Choose at least one! Don’t forget to RSVP to attend IADL’s Annual Meeting on November 13, 2023.

The 2nd annual Danbury San Gennaro Festival is back and BIGGER than before. This FREE 5-day event will be filled with delicious food, music, games, entertainment, everything you can ever ask for! Get ready to say CIAO and PREGO from August 23rd – 27th! HOURS: Wed – Fri. 5-11PM / Saturday 1-11PM / Sunday 1-10PM. The event takes place at Danbury CityCenter Green, 1 Ives Street, Danbury, CT 06810 .

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

August 13, 2023

Italian-American Defense League addressed Mayor Justin Elicker’s false claims after IADL filed a lawsuit against Elicker and the City of New Haven in June 2023. Elicker called supporters of Wooster Square’s Columbus statue “small.” Read “Embrace a culture of respect in Wooster Square,” which was published in the Connecticut Post and New Haven Register. Both links are included because access to the NHR link was restricted for some readers. Our very own Columbus Monument Task Force reviewed this piece before it was submitted. If you have any questions or input, please contact IADL.

Often, we are asked, “What can we do to help?” First, IADL’s board of directors is coming to the end of its 3-year term. This group of founders created IADL during Year 1 and sponsored a Columbus Day Dinner. During Year 2, IADL continued to grow and brought the Italian American community together at its Italian Unity Dinner while adopting an Italian Unity Resolution. During Year 3, the Columbus Monument Task Force was created and IADL filed legal action to bring Columbus back to Wooster Square. Additionally, IADL became a member of COPOMIAO, representing 61+ Italian groups nationally.

During Year 4, IADL’s new board will seek to create new bonds. Board members will:

Plan and participate in events
Attend director’s meetings
Communicate regularly
Recruit new members
Assist with fundraising
Read IADL’s weekly newsletter

If you have any questions about becoming a board member or would like to join the board, please email iadlnow@yahoo.com. The new slate of directors will be approved at IADL’s annual meeting in November. More information is listed under events later in this newsletter.

For those of you who are not ready to join the board yet, participation is crucial to maintain and promote Italian heritage. At the end of this newsletter is a list of events. Choose one or more, so we can keep traditions alive for future generations.

Most pressing, contact the Italian-American Defense League to walk in Bridgeport’s Columbus Day Parade. Let’s make our presence known and honor our heritage with a group of 20 or more on October 8, 2023. RSVP and include your t-shirt size. Family and friends are welcome (If they are participating, we need their t-shirt sizes, too). We will place an order for the t-shirts soon.

Promote Education

This week, IADL will take a break from sharing New Jersey’s Italian Heritage curriculum’s unit “An Italian Dream Leads to the Origins of the Hispanic People and Beyond” and will continue with Lesson 2 next week. Explore the curriculum on your own, here.

Instead, I will share some online resources on a variety of topics after two passionate new IADL members shared them with me after reading IADL’s opinion piece cited above. In past newsletters, IADL shared articles about the origins of Columbus Day and anti-Italian bigotry. What do you think about these two articles? Share your insight and feedback.

The Lynching that Gave Us Columbus Day - Medium.com
How Italians Became White – New York Times
Finding Your Roots: How Italians Became White - YouTube

The two articles above are worthy of being studied and included in an Italian heritage curriculum. Whether we like it or not, Columbus is integrated in the Italian immigrant story. The far-left fringe who portrays Columbus as a monster ignores historical facts and only cares about promoting its anti-colonization agenda. Anyone who puts 10 minutes of time into research realizes that disease decimated Native Americans in America, not Columbus. I have one disagreement with the first article: though Cabrini Day is a holiday worth honoring, it should not replace Columbus Day, as it did in Colorado. Regarding the second article in the New York Times, a publisher that admits showing bias against Italians, declared that Italians are considered White. Does that make it true? Does accepting that as fact make it easier for the fringe to lump people of Italian descent into the false narrative of being privileged? There is much to think about, and history is not pretty. If more people understood Italian immigrant history, more people would join our cause.

Portray Italians Positively

Attorney Patricia Cofrancesco and American Italian Women of Greater New Haven (AIWGNH) were the steadfast champions of Italian American Heritage from 2020 –2023 for leading the charge against City Hall for its illegal removal of Wooster Square’s Columbus statue. Every Italian American and citizen who desires to preserve our nation’s history should be grateful to them because AIWGNH is the one group that had the courage to stand-up for Italian heritage at the time. Now IADL is building a coalition to continue the cause.

In addition to AIWGNH’s Herculean legal effort, it has a rich history in New Haven and currently gives back to the community. Every year, the women’s group presents scholarships to local high schoolers. Fran Calzetta, president of AIWGNH, honored the scholarship winners at a luncheon and posted this on the group’s Facebook page, “Announcing the scholarship winners for 2023. In a highly competitive challenge, Patrick Cucchiarelli will be attending Villanova. Calista Mack will be attending Southern CT State University. Alyssa Rinaldi will be attending Berkley in CA. The high school seniors have proven their worthiness through exceptional academic performance and talents as well as outside community service.” Thank you to Calzetta, AIW, and especially the scholarship winners!

Preserve Traditions

In Massachusetts, the Italian American Alliance is participating in its yearly campaign to maintain Columbus Day as a state holiday. If Columbus Day is cancelled in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island are next. This is from the desk of the IAA:

Currently there are 2 bills pending before the legislature, H2989 & S1976, which would replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day

These bills are currently before the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight. The members of this committee can be found here: https://malegislature.gov/Committees/Detail/J25/193 We have been told by the Committee that there will be a public hearing on October 3, 2023 at the State House. Room and time TBD.

We will keep you apprised of the details as soon as they are made available. The House Bill, H2989, is being Sponsored by Rep Christine Barber (D), Somerville and the Senate Bill, S1976, is being Sponsored by Sen Joanne Comerford (D), Northampton.

The bills are being cosponsored by: Samantha Montaño (D), 15th Suffolk; Lindsay N. Sabadosa (D), 1st Hampshire; Rebecca L. Rausch (D), Norfolk, Worcester and Middlesex; David Henry Argosky LeBoeuf (D), 17th Worcester; Christopher M. Markey (D), 9th Bristol; Steven Owens (D), 29th Middlesex; Vanna Howard (D), 17th Middlesex; Patricia A. Duffy (D), 5th Hampden; Erika Uyterhoeven (D), 27th Middlesex; Jack Patrick Lewis (D), 7th Middlesex; James J. O'Day (D), 14th Worcester; Jason M. Lewis (D), Fifth Middlesex; Michelle M. DuBois (D), 10th Plymouth; Tricia Farley-Bouvier (D), 2nd Berkshire; Jennifer Balinsky Armini (D), 8th Essex; Colleen M. Garry (D), 36th Middlesex; James B. Eldridge (D), Middlesex and Worcester; Natalie M. Higgins (D), 4th Worcester; David Paul Linsky (D), 5th Middlesex; Mindy Domb(D), 3rd Hampshire; Kay Khan(D), 11th Middlesex; Kenneth I. Gordon (D), 21st Middlesex; Manny Cruz (D), 7th Essex; Joan Meschino (D), 3rd Plymouth; Sally P. Kerans (D), 13th Essex; Mike Connolly (D), 26th Middlesex; Carol A. Doherty (D), 3rd Bristol; Chynah Tyler (D), 7th Suffolk; Michelle L. Ciccolo (D), 15th Middlesex

There has also been a filing for a ballot initiative for 2024 to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day. More information on that ballot initiative can be found here:
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/ballot-initiatives-filed-for-the-2024-biennial-statewide-election-proposed-laws-and-2026-biennial-statewide-election-proposed-constitutional-amendments#23-41-an-initiative-petition-for-a-law-relative-to-the-establishment-of-an-indigenous-peoples-day-

The Ballot initiative must be approved by Attorney General Andrea Campbell. Then, if approved, the petitioner will have to obtain the necessary amount of signatures (over 100,000 "raw" signatures to obtain the required number of "certified" signatures) to put the petition on the ballot to be voted on. The text of this ballot petition is identical to the text of the two bills before the legislature. If passed by the voters, this ballot initiative would circumvent the legislature and replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

The people seeking to cancel Columbus Day are using every tactic they can to make sure they erase our heritage and our holiday. As you remember, last year, thanks to your calls and emails to the legislature, the IDP bills died in committee, and it is our intention to do the best we can to see that these bills and ballot initiatives fail again this year.

We are committed to fighting the cancel culture movement that has unfairly seized upon Columbus as their scapegoat. These attacks are based upon lies and misinformation about his role in the history that followed the discovery of the New World. We will continue educating people about Christopher Columbus so they can better understand that eliminating him from our history is unnecessary and hurtful to the Italian American community and to all Americans. As we did last year, the IAA has taken the lead in monitoring these situations. We will keep you informed and we will let you know when and how to help.

In another campaign against cancel culture, Native American Guardian’s Association (NAGA) posted an online petition (you can sign here) that already received 85,000 signatures to reclaim the name Washington Redskins for the National Football League’s team in D.C. If you are unaware, the team changed its name to Washington Commanders. In 2021, then President Tony Henson, sent IADL a letter in favor of keeping Columbus Day. Now let’s return the favor. Learn more about NAGA on its website.

Upcoming Events:

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

August 6, 2023

Shafiq Abdussabar is a Democrat running for Mayor of New Haven. The primary will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. Abdussabar’s campaign recently shared his position statement titled: Rebuild Cultural Ties and Facilitate Cultural Reconciliation.

Residents in the East Shore and throughout the city feel the current Administration disregards their cultures. Italian-Americans witnessed this firsthand when the Administration was not fully transparent about the statue removal at Wooster Square Park. As Mayor, Shafiq will work with the Department of Arts, Culture, and Tourism; cultural stakeholders like the New Haven Italian-American Heritage Group; and the Parks Commission to embrace all of New Haven’s cultural communities. Public cultural reconciliation spaces will create opportunities to explain the history, meaning, and significance of specific historical figures and why other cultures may see them differently. Creating cultural reconciliation spaces will enable communities to learn about each other, understand and respect differences, and heal together.

This position statement does not specifically address the Christopher Columbus monument that was removed in Wooster Square, but one could infer how a true New Havener Abdussabar would handle the situation compared to the current Mayor who removed the Columbus statue. Finally, there is a commonsense leader who is seeking to unite instead of divide. Imagine two plaques posted at the Columbus statue, one explaining the historical significance of the statue as a symbol of accepting immigrants to the United States in 1892 and another explaining the perspective of activists in 2020. We will never convince the far left to love Columbus, but we can convince them to have the courage to stop hiding our history.

If you would like to learn more about Shafiq Abdussabar and donate to his campaign, go to https://www.voteshafiq.com/bio .

Contact the Italian-American Defense League to walk in Bridgeport’s Columbus Day Parade. Let’s make our presence known and honor our heritage with a group of 20 or more on October 8, 2023. As soon as we have a commitment of 20, we can order insurance for the event and order T-shirts. Email IADL today to participate and to ask any questions. So far, six IADL members are participating. We would like 14 more! Once you commit, we will provide more details about the day’s event.

Promote Education

If you are a teacher or know one, share this unit overview called “An Italian’s Dream Leads to the Origins of the Hispanic People and Beyond.” The far-left overlooks or purposely ignores the fact that Hispanic people would not exist if Columbus did not discover America, which is why teaching students this content is crucial. Watch this unit overview to learn about the series of lessons that will help students use critical thinking skills to better understand the connection among Columbus, Hispanics, and Puerto Ricans in America.

Then watch “The Venetian Spice Monopoly Causes the First Globalization Through an Italian Explorer.” From the teacher perspective, watch this Lesson 1 Overview to prepare for instruction. Lessons are part of New Jersey’s Italian Heritage Curriculum, which should be adopted in every state.

Portray Italians Positively

Today IADL recognizes The Italian American Podcast because it portrays Italians positively. According to the podcast’s website, it started in 2015 by Anthony Fasano and Dolores Alfieri Taranto. Now John M. Viola, Rosella Rago, and Patrick O’Boyle joined the founders. The podcast is described as “unfiltered, raucous, round-table conversations digging deep into the ‘hows and whys’ of who we are. A communal therapist couch for the Italian American psyche!”

In the latest Episode 288, they describe their experiences visiting Roseto, Pennsylvania, saying if Norman Rockwell was Italian American, this would be the epitome of a quintessential Italian village in the United States. Before Roseto was Americanized, it was known for its “Roseto effect.” The American medical community found that because of interpersonal relationships, being social and enjoying life, along with eating habits, residents of Roseto had a lower mortality rate.

Preserve Traditions

Attention to IADL members in the Greater Hartford Area: In Springfield, MA, the Sons & Daughters of Italy’s St. Padre Pio Lodge 3013, the Assunta Society, and the Calabrese Community of Springfield invite you to the Feast of Maria SS Dell’Assunta, Our Lady of the Assumption.

On Sunday, August 13 at 10:30 a.m. Sunday Mass & a Procession will take place at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 123 William St. Springfield, MA. At 4:00 p.m., enjoy an Italian Dinner & Music at the Mt. Carmel Parish Center, 123 William St. Springfield, MA. Tickets for the dinner are $35 and can be purchased at www.springfielditalians.com . If you plan on attending mass, email iadlnow@yahoo.org so we can plan to sit together.

IADL member Dario Gagliano has been instrumental in revitalizing the Sons and Daughters of Italy Lodge in Springfield. The lodge was reestablished in the past year with this mission, "As Italian Americans, we are proud and grateful to inherit cherished traditions brought from our homeland to these shores by our beloved ancestors. It is our privilege and duty to preserve and cultivate these values to ensure our destiny to thrive as an authentic Italian community.”

Upcoming Events:

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

July 30, 2023

Contact the Italian-American Defense League to walk in Bridgeport’s Columbus Day Parade. Let’s make our presence known and honor our heritage with a group of 20 or more on October 8, 2023. As soon as we have a commitment of 20, we can order insurance for the event and order t-shirts. Email IADL today to participate and to ask any questions. Once you commit, we will provide more details about the day’s event.

In Bridgeport, Connecticut, a post on a far-left organization’s social media page made headlines after disparaging the decision of the city’s Democratic Party to hold its convention at an Italian club. Italian-American Defense League and Council of Italian American Societies of Greater Bridgeport called for the condemnation of the post in a joint statement. For more details, read this CT Post article and our full statement with a response from the Mayor of Bridgeport. The mayoral candidate supported by the far-left group refused to condemn the derogatory post. The news story received national attention and was mentioned on the Glenn Beck radio show, another example of many deriding Italian heritage. It was just a few weeks ago when a Chicago alderwoman posted her own ignorant comment.

You can support the Italian-American Defense League’s mission through PayPal or Go Fund Me. You can also send a check to: Italian-American Defense League, 23 Lochbourne Drive, Clinton, CT 06413. Let’s preserve our heritage and American history. If you received this newsletter, but haven’t joined IADL, fill out the online form using this link. Membership is free. Donations are not tax-deductible.

Promote Education

Should we study Columbus? That is a question posed in New Jersey’s Italian Heritage Curriculum, which IADL is humbly promoting. Magda Galascius, an educator of Cuban descent, concisely explains the history of Columbus and the series of lessons to help students become informed, critical thinkers about the context of the explorer’s discovery. Watch this video which is an introduction to a series of lessons about Christopher Columbus.

Portray Italians Positively

It was an honor to attend the Saint Mary Maddalena Society 125th year anniversary dinner at Anthony's Ocean View. Italian-American Defense League members had a great time among friends, sharing exceptional food and memories. With a room filled with more than 600 people, we felt inspiration for Italian heritage in the future.

Thank you to Peter Criscuolo, Rich Biondi, Bobby Astorino, Andrew Consiglio and many others for organizing such a wonderful event. To view photos and for more information about this historical organization, visit its Facebook page.

This week, IADL continues to honor the music legend Tony Bennett. This 60 Minutes Australia interview digs deeper into the hearts of two Italian-American superstars from New York: Bennett and Lady Gaga, describing their bond in this way, “For all their differences, they are, strangely, kindred spirits.” Watch the 10-minute video from 2014 here to learn more about their relationship or a more recent video with Lady Gaga from 2021 describing her experience performing with Bennett.

Preserve Traditions

In Syracuse, New York, the previous decision of the State Supreme Court to keep the city’s Christopher Columbus Monument in its current location was overturned. With the decision of the appellate court, Mayor Ben Walsh can restart the process to remove the statue. Read the Daily Orange to learn more. The case will likely be appealed, again. What impact will this have on the New Haven case? You can read the Italian community's response in Primo Magazine, here.

Unlike in the United States, the Italian government continues to work diligently to preserve history. Investigators found a missing 15th century letter from Christopher Columbus to the Spanish monarchs in Delaware. Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said the letter will be part of a traveling exhibition that will teach about the historical context and help people appreciate it. To learn more about the content of the letter, click here.

Upcoming Events:

Today is the last day of Southington, CT’s Italian festival on Lower Center Street. Italian mass starts at 10 a.m. followed by a procession. There is live music and entertainment from 12:30 to 4:30. For more information, visit the festival’s Facebook page.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

July 23, 2023

After traveling for three weeks with my family through Italy, if I had a great appreciation for Italian history and culture before the trip, now it is magnified a thousand-fold. From the modern fashion city of Milan, which reminds me most of an American city, to Genova, Firenze, and Pisa, Italy is the perfect mix of old and new. After our time north, we traveled to Rome, Caserta, and Napoli. Day trips to the mountains of Matese, Tyrrhenian Sea, and Adriatic Sea allowed for some well needed rest after driving what is the equivalent of Montreal to Miami during the vacation. I was able to revisit Marina Grande in Sorrento where I proposed to my wife almost twenty years ago. Walking into my Nonna's house, who is no longer with us, it was like stepping into the past, and spending time with my mother and father, in my mother’s hometown of Alife was extra special. One thing I will miss is that in Santa Maria, residents take a siesta during the hottest part of the day, with every day reaching the high nineties and sunny, only to recharge for late night dinners and family gatherings outside everywhere in the town until late into the evening. With family in Bolognia, Roma, Piedimonte, and Santa Maria, spending time together reminds me of what it means to be Italian. Now that I have returned, American coffee and fruit taste bland, but the memories are rich.

Promote Education

Today, the Italian-American Defense League shares the fifth video in a series of five, covering the topic “Italians and the Holocaust.” The New Jersey Heritage Commission developed a curriculum that can be implemented using an infusion model in schools nationally and internationally. An infusion model enhances current school district curriculum without replacing or changing it. That means any district can start using the lesson plans and resources immediately. Currently the commission is adding video resources to be more engaging, attracting the attention of today’s students. IADL has been invited to be an ambassador of the curriculum.

“The debate continues whether Pius XII did not do enough to oppose Nazism or to help Jews during the Holocaust. As more records are revealed and found, the debate will continue, though significant evidence of Vatican assistance for Jews and others persecuted by the Nazis continues to be found. The question will remain whether he had done enough.” Watch “Soviet Spies and Propaganda.” And explore more lesson plans here.

Portray Italians Positively

Born Anthony Dominick Benedetto on August 3, 1926, during the last wave of Italian immigration in the 1920s, serving in World War II, pursuing a singing career, and getting his big break under the wing of Bob Hope, Italian American and cultural Icon Tony Bennett lived a full life spanning across generations from the Golden Age of Television to the MTV age, and even The Simpsons to his final public performance in 2021. This Time Magazine tribute is comprehensive and includes links to some of Bennett’s biggest hits including:

Because of You

I Left My Heart in San Francisco

Capital City

“Tony Bennett, a standard bearer of the American Songbook whose resilient career stretched from duetting with Judy Garland to Lady Gaga, died on July 21 at the age of 96. His publicist, Sylvia Weiner, confirmed his death to the Associated Press. He had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016.

Bennett started singing jazz standards as a teenage waiter and never stopped, despite persistent pleas from producers and record executives to diversify his repertoire. While the sound of music shifted dramatically from decade to decade, Bennett remained staunchly committed to bringing his laid-back, amiable interpretation of jazz to each new generation. He packed concert halls during Beatlemania, endeared himself to the MTV crowd, and seamlessly adapted to the streaming era.” Continue reading here.

Preserve Traditions

One local grocer is sharing his family’s heritage by offering his customers a Muffuletta, a traditional Sicilian sandwich. During the late nineteenth century and early part of the twentieth century, New Orleans was the destination of 300,000 Italian immigrants, mostly Sicilian. One section of the city was called “Little Palermo.” Today, generations later, descendants of these immigrants are preserving their cultural heritage. To pay homage to this Sicilian tradition, you can learn how to make a Muffuletta yourself. Click here for the article and recipe.

Upcoming Events:

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

July 16, 2023

The Italian-American Defense League made international headlines with news of IADL’s lawsuit against Mayor Justin Elicker and the City of New Haven appearing in We the Italians. Based in Rome, We the Italians describes itself in this way, “We the Italians is a media company that helps everybody to share, promote, be informed and keep in touch with anything regarding Italy in general, and specifically Italy in the U.S. Through our website, our social media communities, our newsletter, our magazine, our podcast and our book, we are the most complete network to ease and improve the relations between Italy and the U.S.” The motto of We the Italians is “We Love Columbus!” This shows the importance of honoring the great explorer to promote the mutually beneficial relationship among the people of both countries. Read articles by Author Umberto Mucci about Italian and American happenings in New England and beyond here.

Promote Education

Today, the Italian-American Defense League shares the fourth video in a series of five, covering the topic “Italians and the Holocaust.” The New Jersey Heritage Commission developed a curriculum that can be implemented using an infusion model in schools nationally and internationally. An infusion model enhances current school district curriculum without replacing or changing it. That means any district can start using the lesson plans and resources immediately. Currently the commission is adding video resources to be more engaging, attracting the attention of today’s students. IADL has been invited to be an ambassador of the curriculum.

“Hitler and the Nazis treacherously continued negotiations with Pius XII to keep him from publicly and specifically condemning their regime. Keeping Pius quiet seemed very important to the Nazis, as they strung the Pontiff along until world opinion no longer mattered.” Watch “The Pope Works to Protect Jews from Nazi Atrocities while Protecting Catholics from the Fascists, Nazis, and Bolsheviks” In upcoming newsletters, IADL will preview more lessons and would like your feedback. Email IADL to share your thoughts.

Portray Italians Positively

Orlando Magic and former Duke University basketball star, Paolo Banchero, portrays Italians positively on the basketball court, but is now being accused of betrayal. Previously Banchero stated that he would play for the Italian national team during the FIBA World Cup in August, but is now playing for the United States. Banchero has dual citizenship of both the United States and Italy, which means he is eligible to play for either country. His father Mario is of Italian descent. Read this ESPN article for more information.

Preserve Traditions

Tommy Damigella, Vice President of Italian American Alliance shares his editorial called, “DON’T SCAPEGOAT COLUMBUS.” Damigella explains that the discoverer of The New World is the convenient fall guy of Cancel Culture and has been vilified based on lies by Howard Zinn. How can all the wrongs of history be blamed on one man? Read Damigella’s editorial below:

No one can deny Columbus' discovery of the New World had a long-term impact on the Indigenous People of North and South America. It was Columbus's life-long mission to discover a shorter sea route to the Far East, not only for new trade, but, also, to find an unobstructed path to Jerusalem, then occupied by the Muslims. Not only was Columbus an incredible navigator who brought his crew safely to an unknown world, he was a pious Christian whose devotion was to spread the word of God.

It was never in this man's heart to brutalize, rape, or, as some people have accused him of, creating purposeful genocide. Columbus was a noble man who was nothing like the villainous exploiter as attributed to him by Howard Zinn in “A People’s History of the United States.” This character assassination has unfortunately been repeated unwittingly by those who use just eight pages of Zinn's book to teach the life and times of Columbus.

That's right. Zinn wrote only eight pages of unmerciful lies and misinformation about Columbus to set the stage for a smear campaign against the United States. He wanted people to believe that the United States, along with the whole Western World, were nothing more than executioners of all minority people. In order to defame America, Zinn had to first defame Columbus.

Tragically, some 90 percent of the native population died of diseases brought here by explorers and settlers from Europe. The Indigenous People lacked the natural immunity to withstand such epidemics as Small Pox and Malaria. There was no intent on the part of Columbus, not to mention other explorers and settlers, to purposely inflict these diseases upon the natives. This cannot be called an act of genocide, but, rather another example of the Tragedy of History. The Black Death of 1345 to 1347 was transmitted from China to eventually kill up to one third of the European population. (Sound familiar?) It was estimated that 25 million people died in a five year period! This was horrific, but should we blame China or accuse Chinese historical figures of genocide? Of course not. It was due to microbes, not people.

These facts are not meant to excuse the many broken treaties and wars against Native Americans by the United States government. Rather, my point is to bring intellectual precision to this historical discussion of Columbus.

Yes, there were atrocities committed against the Taino people, but not by Columbus. Indeed, he went so far as to ally himself with the tribes of Hispaniola against their historical enemies, the Caribs. Columbus sought only to befriend and treat fairly the Taino. He made efforts to baptize the Taino into the Christian faith to make illegal their enslavement. He never threatened to cut off their hands or forced them to dig gold. These are lies and myths. Columbus never owned any slaves, although at that time, human bondage was acceptable in every corner of the world. Columbus never raped or condoned the raping of Taino women. He punished his own men who rebelled against his authority to commit such felonies. This is all recorded and documented by Bartolomé de las Casas, a Spanish priest who lived in the 16th century to publish a personal account of the Indies. Father de las Casas attributed most crimes to the conquistadors who followed Columbus to the New World.

An extensive list of scholarly sources are available today that support my viewpoint. For instance, the eight page defamation of Columbus by Howard Zinn is thoroughly disproved by such works as “Debunking Howard Zinn Fake History,” by Mary Grabar, “Columbus Hero,” by Rafael Ortiz, “Columbus and His Quest for Jerusalem” by Carol Delaney and “Admiral of the Sea” by Samuel Morrison, just to name a few.

To solely lay the blame on Columbus for the inhumane acts, wars and conflicts to occur after his death because of mass migration, the clash of cultures and the introduction of diseases is absurd on its face and libelous in its action.

Columbus is a legitimate historical figure who helped change the world for the better. The positive contributions to humankind far outweigh the unfortunate tragedies that came with development and discovery of the New World.

Yes, Native Americans deserve to have their day of special recognition for us to proudly celebrate their culture, history and heritage. They remain a significant part of the United States. Such recognition can and must be formalized, but not at the expense and insult to Italian American communities who have so proudly associated themselves with Columbus for more than 130 years.

It is unfortunate that some people do not understand the historical connection of Columbus to our grandparent’s generation who endured incredible oppression and bigotry. This emotional connection of pride to Columbus cannot be ignored if one is to truly understand why we defend Columbus against uninformed and misguided critics.

Since our nation's founding, we have honored Columbus by naming cities, buildings and statues for his discovery of the New World. Because of Columbus, the United States has existed to do more for the betterment of all people than any society or nation in the history of the world. The world is a far better place because of America, regardless of Zinn's poisonous telling of our country’s history.

The efforts made by those, today, who use Columbus as their scapegoat to push a political agenda is unnecessary and unwarranted.

We are all better than that. The time is now for a more sensible effort of intellectual precision to convey the greater truth of Columbus.

Upcoming Events:

Italian-American Defense League purchased a table of 10 at the St. Mary Magdalene 125th Anniversary Dinner. The event will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 1 PM to 5 PM at Anthony’s Ocean View, 450 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT, 06512. Ten IADL members are attending. IADL encourages members to support cultural events and existing Italian heritage organizations.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

July 9, 2023

Since filing a lawsuit against Mayor Justin Elicker and the City of New Haven for illegally removing Wooster Square’s Columbus statue, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The majority of Americans believe in a culture of mutual respect among all Americans and the preservation of historical monuments. However, there are a small number of individuals on the fringe who dislike America and are very vocal. You may even come in contact with them. Two such individuals contacted the IADL. Always remain positive, emphasize a culture of mutual respect, and provide them some resources. Author Rafael Oritz provided IADL these links to share:

Website- http://www.officialchristophercolumbus.com/

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/officialchristophercolumbus/

YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqBG6m7thTjfW4STbMg6vTQ

Books- https://www.amazon.com/Rafael/e/B001KCXNV0/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

Memes- https://imgflip.com/user/RafaEl4

Documentary about Columbus- Courage and Conviction

Promote Education

Today, the Italian-American Defense League shares the third video in a series of five, covering the topic “Italians and the Holocaust.” The New Jersey Heritage Commission developed a curriculum that can be implemented using an infusion model in schools nationally and internationally. An infusion model enhances current school district curriculum without replacing or changing it. That means any district can start using the lesson plans and resources immediately. Currently the commission is adding video resources to be more engaging, attracting the attention of today’s students. IADL has been invited to be an ambassador of the curriculum.

“Of all the horrific events that took place during the World War II era, none is more grotesque nor as unsettling than the Holocaust.” Watch “The Holocaust”. In upcoming newsletters, IADL will preview more lessons and would like your feedback. Email IADL to share your thoughts.

Portray Italians Positively

Judge Basil Russo and the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations are uniting people of Italian descent and representing Italians positively. Over the past three years, COPOMIAO has been advocating for and championing Italian causes nationally and internationally. According to COPOMIAO’s newsletter, “In an effort to further promote Italian American unity, President Basil Russo unveiled an exciting initiative: COPOMIAO will sponsor the first gathering of prominent Italian American leaders from across the country in Hollywood this fall to celebrate our proud heritage. The event will focus on Italian American contributions to the entertainment industry. The gathering will be hosted by the internationally-acclaimed producers and directors, Anthony and Joe Russo, at their AGBO studio this November.”

According to COPOMIAO other milestone achievements include:

Its three national Italian American Summit Meetings, which brought 400 organizations together online.

Its private reception at the Italian Ambassador Mariangela Zappia's home in Washington, D.C., which cemented strategic partnerships.

Its trip to Italy to meet with the nation's most important leaders to develop a more productive relationship with the Italian government.

Its trip to the Vatican to meet with the Vatican Secretary of State and attend a private audience with Pope Francis.

Its success in spearheading a national drive to convince the White House to issue a properly worded Columbus Day Proclamation last year.

Its sponsorship of the first Italian American Future Leaders Conference in Ft. Lauderdale to begin transferring the mantle of leadership to a new generation.

Preserve Traditions

From Mount Rushmore to Washinton D.C., people of Italian descent carry a history of stone carving. Luigi Del Bianco carved Mount Rushmore and The Piccirilli Brothers are most famous for carving the Lincoln Memorial. Today, fewer and fewer Italian-Americans are engaged in the trade. This story tells a story that is representative of stone carvers in America. Learn about the last stone carver in Barre, Vermont.

“Giuliano Cecchinelli is 79 years old, has a gray beard, a brown plaid shirt and a floppy beret, and is a classically trained sculptor. He's been carving stone since he was a boy in Italy. “I know more than even the cemetery knows,” he says as he walks through Hope Cemetery in Barre. “You know, the family, the workers.” Giuliano points out a detailed carving on a tombstone. He says that long ago, carvers were so skilled that they specialized; one man did the flowers, another the lettering. He’s part of a long legacy of Italian stone carvers in Barre, craftsmen whose skill transformed an industry and made the small central Vermont town the “Granite Capital of the World.” Continue reading about Cecchinelli here.

Upcoming Events:

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

July 2, 2023

Italian immigrants traveled to the United States without a strong national identity and home in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Italy was a young country, unified in 1861, despite its rich Italian history as a peninsula for thousands of years. Italian immigrants embraced a new identity as Americans and passed that love of our nation to their children and grandchildren. With that American spirit and appreciation of those who came before us, happy Fourth of July.

Remember, without 1492 there wouldn't be 1776. Our independence and freedoms are made possible by many, but it all started with an average man from Genoa with an extraordinary idea.

Promote Education

Today, the Italian-American Defense League shares the second video in a series of five, covering the topic “Italians and the Holocaust.” The New Jersey Heritage Commission developed a curriculum that can be implemented using an infusion model in schools nationally and internationally. An infusion model enhances current school district curriculum without replacing or changing it. That means any district can start using the lesson plans and resources immediately. Currently the commission is adding video resources to be more engaging, attracting the attention of today’s students. IADL has been invited to be an ambassador of the curriculum.

“As a former socialist, Mussolini had long been an ardent atheist and very hostile to the Catholic Church. Nevertheless, to eliminate strong opposition to his regime, in 1929 Mussolini entered the Italian Concordat (The Lateran Treaty) with Pope Pius XI and the Catholic Church. The Concordat established the one square mile around St. Peter’s Basilica as an independent nation.” Watch “Pope Pius XI, Mussolini and Hitler”. In upcoming newsletters, IADL will preview more lessons and would like your feedback. Email IADL to share your thoughts.

Portray Italians Positively

IADL is a humble member of the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations. The following is from the desk of COPOMIAO:

In 2022, COPOMIAO launched the Donna Distinta — Distinguished Woman — Award to spotlight the contributions of Italian America's leading women, from culture and industry to philanthropy and activism. The 2022 & 2023 Donna Distinta honorees were recognized at COPOMIAO's annual meeting in NYC on June 17. The honorees included:

Marianna Gatto, a museum curator, historian, intellectual and author, who is unifying Italian America through high-concept exhibits, viral content and eye-opening research — much of which focuses on our people’s indelible impact on the West Coast. As Executive Director of the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles (IAMLA), Ms. Gatto is a bridge among generations.

Dr. Gilda Rorro was knighted by the President of Italy, conferring the title of Cavaliere (Cav.), an honor that is a capstone to her impressive career and lifetime achievements. Dr. Rorro was an actress, model, an award-winning educator, a statewide civil rights director for School Desegregation, Affirmative Action, and initiator of Multicultural Education at the DOE; she currently chairs the NJIHC Curriculum Development Committee.

Dolores Alfieri Taranto is a writer, editor, photographer and podcaster who explores tradition, old world style, ancestral inspiration, food — homegrown and from scratch — and, of course, family. Immersed in academia and dialogue surrounding culture and artisanship, this Italian American influencer has generated a style of intellectualism that is pulling in a wide mix of inspired audiences. www.bellafigurapodcast.com

Rossella Rago, a chef, author, influencer and entrepreneur from Bensonhurst-Brooklyn, has amassed millions of YouTube views and a million social media followers — all in tribute to the values and traditions of her Nonna Romana. Ms. Rago is a shining personification of the Italian American experience. www.cookingwithnonna.com

Stephanie Longo, a pillar of Italian American academia and a new school leader, has an intellect and drive that are an inspiration to us all. Ms. Longo is a teacher, doctoral student, digital pioneer, local historian, award-winning author and journalist, a chief of staff and the list goes on. www.italianamericanpodcast.com

Antonina “Ann” Uccello was an outstanding leader who forever changed the national political landscape. Ann was a force for good, a voice of reason and a beacon to women and girls everywhere who sought to break through glass ceilings. Ms. Uccello passed away on March 14, 2023, at the age of 100, yet, her tireless pursuit of excellence shines on.

"These six women exemplify the grace, character, intelligence and tenacity that we all can look up to and learn from. Women are the soul of the Italian American experience, and we look forward to announcing the next recipients of this most deserved and distinguished award."

-Basil M. Russo, President, COPOMIAO

Preserve Traditions

People of Italian descent are all too familiar with cancel culture. However, Italians are not the only group having their cultural symbols removed. This Fox News article tells the story of the Native American hero and American icon who is being cancelled. “Meet the American who was revered as the 'patron saint' until he was canceled: Lenni Lenape chief Tammany, beloved chief who inspired patriots in battle, shaped politics and was celebrated in pop culture and pro sports.”

In 2021, the Italian-American Defense League received a letter from the Native American Guardian’s Association. NAGA supports maintaining positive symbols of Native Americans as sports teams icons. Tony Henson, the president of the organization with the mission of “Educate, not Eradicate,” wrote to IADL stating, “On behalf of our national organization, we support your proposal to maintain the current Columbus Day holiday and designate another day to celebrate Indigenous People's Day. We believe that all races and historic figures should be celebrated for their contributions to our Nation.” Italian-American Defense League and NAGA share in the mission of preserving history and a culture of mutual respect as Americans.

Upcoming Events:

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

June 25, 2023

Last week was busy as television news stations contacted Italian-American Defense League about its recent lawsuit against Mayor Justin Elicker of New Haven for illegally removing Wooster Square’s Columbus statue. The elimination of Columbus began years ago when Columbus Park was renamed Wooster Square Park. Under Elicker’s reign, Columbus School changed its name, Columbus Day is now called Italian Heritage Day, and the Columbus statue was put into storage. To what other ethnic, racial, or religious group does government dictate who or what their cultural symbols or icons should be?

First, Italian-American Defense League promotes education, positively portraying Italians, and preserving traditions including creating new ones. That is why IADL is committed to explaining the story of New Haven’s Columbus statue dedication in 1892. Thousands of Italians stood near the Columbus monument as Paul Russo, representing United Italian Societies, dedicated the statue. The statue symbolizes the bond between Italians, New Haven, and Connecticut. For Italians, it was the first time they felt accepted in an Irish Catholic church and as Americans. Today, one person in city hall should not have the power to break that 128-year bond.

Second, the majority of Americans believe in preserving historical monuments as markers of our shared past. Only a small fringe group on the far left of the Democrat party believes in removing historic monuments from public view in the United States. It just so happens that Mayor Justin Elicker is one of these misinformed and opportunistic people catering to the extremists. Italian-American Defense League consists of 140 members and is affiliated with 61 of the largest Italian societies in the United States as a member of COPOMIAO. Many of our members are also members of societies from New Haven or residents themselves. Italian-American Defense League asks Mayor Elicker, where did he obtain his data saying that Italians support removing Columbus statues? His supporters are a very small group.

Third, Italian-American Defense League calls for a culture of mutual respect. Together, all of our stories make up the history of New Haven and beyond. When you look around at Wooster Square Park, there is plenty of room to tell the stories of all groups in New Haven. We shouldn’t be picking cultural winners and losers. When the plaque honoring Italian immigrants was removed from the base of the Columbus statue, that symbolized the lack of respect of Elicker towards people of Italian descent.

Fourth, Italian-American Defense League believes in law and order. Regulations and procedures govern historic districts. Mayor Elicker acted as king and disregarded law. He also sided with vandals who threw paint on the statue while breaking the law instead of siding with Italian-Americans who peacefully protested the statue’s removal. More than 50 people of Italian descent watched, feeling shock and betrayal as the parks department removed the statue, following Elicker’s order.

Lastly, New Haven’s Monument Committee was asked to design a replacement, and that is what it did. Italian-American Defense League believes that members of that committee had the best intentions of creating a meaningful statue representing the Italian immigrant experience. IADL does not question the intentions of members of that committee. Our question is: Why cannot both statues become a tourist destination in Wooster Square, one representing the historical context of Italian immigration in 1892 and another showing the aim of residents to re-examine history in 2020? Both are worthy of public space and a place in the history of New Haven.

My experience is that we can rise to the occasion and be mutually respectful to all groups by explaining the complexities of our shared histories, instead of oversimplifying them. Mayor Elicker can stop wasting taxpayer money and resources by moving on and collaborating on a unifying solution.

To understand two reporters’ perspective on our lawsuit, you can read and watch video from two newscasts: WTNH News 8 and Fox 61.

Promote Education

Will the Italian-American Defense League become an ambassador of a new Italian American curriculum in schools? The New Jersey Heritage Commission developed a curriculum that can be implemented using an infusion model in schools nationally and internationally. An infusion model enhances current school district curriculum without replacing or changing it. That means any district can start using the lesson plans and resources immediately. Currently the commission is adding video resources to be more engaging, attracting the attention of today’s students. The first video is the first in a series of five, covering the topic: Italians and the Holocaust. The videos were produced in collaboration with The New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education. Watch “Italians and the Holocaust Background.” In upcoming newsletters, IADL will preview more lessons and would like your feedback. Email IADL to share your thoughts.

Portray Italians Positively

“FAMILY TREASURE NOURISHES MY SOUL”- WRITTEN BY TOMMY DAMIGELLA

Today I found my daughter’s social studies project that she wrote when she was a freshman in high school. She was asked to interview her grandparents and learn more about their parents and their life stories as Italian Americans.

What a family treasure she created. By interviewing my parents and my wife’s parents she uncovered the essence of why so many Italian Americans found success and prosperity in America.

Her conversation with them clearly revealed the incredible challenges her great grandparents experienced and how difficult it was to leave their homes in Italy to start a new life here in America. Continue reading here.

Attention IADL MEMBERS! Do you have a story to tell about a person of Italian descent who impacted your life or society positively? IADL wants to publish your stories in “Our Italian American Stories” in this newsletter and on our website. Keep your writing to 500 words or less and include a photo. IADL reserves the right to edit your piece before its publication. Don’t worry about your writing ability, IADL will assist you. Email IADL with any questions at iadlnow@yahoo.com. Be sure to read our latest submission below in “Portray Italians Positively.”

Preserve Traditions

The 115th Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade held its volunteer kick-off dinner on Thursday, June 22. Italian-American Defense League was humbled to be invited as a participant at the dinner. Bridgeport’s Columbus Day Parade is the oldest, continuous Columbus Day Parade in the Northeast. With no Columbus Day Parade in Greater New Haven this year, this is an opportunity for Italian heritage and patriotic organizations across the state to support a great American tradition in Bridgeport. This bipartisan and multicultural event is for all people in one big and extended Italian American family. If your organization, members, or families would like to participate, please email IADL today. There is no better way to preserve our heritage and history than by experiencing and supporting our cultural traditions. Learn more about all the events leading up to the parade on October 8th on the parade’s website.

Upcoming Events:

Italian-American Defense League is purchasing a table of 10 at the St. Mary Magdalene 125th Anniversary Dinner. The event will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 1 PM to 5 PM at Anthony’s Ocean View, 450 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT, 06512. So far, eight IADL members have committed to attending. We have 2 tickets left for our table. Tickets cost $75 each for appetizers, buffet, and open bar. Email Matt at iadlnow@yahoo.com or call him at (860)-552–9597 if you would like to attend.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

June 18, 2023

Illegally removing the Christopher Columbus statue in Wooster Square was a historic injustice in New Haven and the State of Connecticut. In 1892 Paul Russo, representing United Italian Societies, dedicated the statue symbolizing the bond of Italians, New Haven, and Connecticut. One man should not have the power to break that bond. Read this Fox 61 article that describes the Italian-American Defense League’s lawsuit which was filed June 14, 2023, thanks to the activism of members and donors.

Yesterday, June 17, 2023, was a momentous day for the Italian-American Defense League. IADL accepted its induction into the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations at the Columbus Citizens Foundation in New York City. The total number of organizations in COPOMIAO increased to 65, making COPOMIAO the largest association of Italian heritage organizations in history. The day started with a private screening of the new Mother Cabrini film, followed by lunch, Annual Meeting, and dinner. It is an honor for IADL to be associated with an Italian heritage organization held in such high esteem. Learn more about COPOMIAO on its website.

The two ways to give support online are through PayPal and Go Fund Me. You can also send a check to: Italian-American Defense League, 23 Lochbourne Drive, Clinton, CT 06413. Let’s preserve our heritage and American history. If you received this newsletter, but haven’t joined IADL, fill out the online form using this link. Membership is free. Donations are not tax-deductible.

Promote Education

Silvio Berlusconi, a former prime minister of Italy, passed away at age 86. He had been suffering from leukemia and had been hospitalized multiple times for various health issues, including heart problems and prostate cancer. Love him or hate him, Berlusconi was a prominent figure in Italian politics. He was a wealthy businessman and media mogul who used his wealth and media platforms to elevate his successful political career. Some people admired him for his charisma and efforts to raise Italy's profile internationally, while others criticized him for using his political power for personal gain. He faced legal troubles, including accusations of hosting scandalous parties and engaging in tax fraud. Despite these controversies, he remained a powerful figure for many years. Berlusconi's death marks the end of an era in Italian politics. Read this in-depth New York post article about Berlusconi’s life and legacy.

Portray Italians Positively

After researching the genealogy of Paul Russo, the most influential Italian immigrant in New Haven during the 1890s, IADL found Russo has no living descendants. However, Russo’s daughter Rose married another prominent Italian and medical doctor, Genesis Frank Carelli. Learn more about this surgeon who was a member of Italian heritage organizations, a parishioner of St. Michael’s Church, and a graduate of Yale.

Preserve Traditions

Even though Father’s Day in Italy is celebrated on March 19 on the Feast of Saint Joseph (Festa di San Guiseppe), happy Father’s Day to all Italian-American fathers. Today, we can keep in mind that St. Joseph is the epitome of an all loving and selfless father figure. In this article, a Catholic mom describes the positive and essential role of fathers in the lives of children. Also, read these three fun facts about Italian Father’s Day.

Upcoming Events:

Attend the St. Andrew Society Annual FESTA which takes place from Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 5:00 PM to Sunday, June 25, 2023 at 8:00 PM. The St. Andrew Apostle Society is located at 515 Chapel Street, New Haven, CT, 06511.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

The Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade is scheduled for October 8, 2023 on Madison Avenue in Bridgeport’s North End.

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

June 11, 2023

This Saturday, June 17, 2023, is a historical day for the Italian-American Defense League. IADL will humbly accept its induction into COPOMIAO with six other new inductees at a meeting in New York City. The total number of organizations in COPOMIAO will increase to 65, making COPOMIAO the largest association of Italian heritage organizations in history.

Attention IADL MEMBERS! Do you have a story to tell about a person of Italian descent who impacted your life or society positively? IADL wants to publish your stories in “Our Italian American Stories” in this newsletter and on our website. Keep your writing to 500 words or less and include a photo. IADL reserves the right to edit your piece before its publication. Don’t worry about your writing ability, IADL will assist you. Email IADL with any questions at iadlnow@yahoo.com. Be sure to read our latest submission below in “Portray Italians Positively.”

With your help and support, Italian-American Defense League retained legal counsel with Pattis & Smith Law Firm to return Wooster Square’s Columbus statue to its pedestal. Read Attorney Norm Pattis’ blogpost, Farewell Columbus, New Haven Rushes to Remove Monument, from June 22, 2020, two days before New Haven’s Christoper Columbus statue was removed.

Promote Education

Writer Paul J. Batura, Vice President of Focus on the Family, takes a concise yet deep dive into the intentions and heart of the Great Explorer Christopher Columbus in the article, “Go Ahead and Celebrate Christopher Columbus, Who Sought to Tell the New World About Jesus Christ.” Batura argues that there have been criticisms against Christopher Columbus, but historical evidence contradicts those claims. Additionally, Columbus’s accounts show he believed that God inspired him to sail to the Americas, evidenced by Columbus’s quotes from the Bible. Furthermore, Batura explains that Columbus humbly attributed his accomplishments to God's plan, hardly the monster that political revisionists depict him as. Batura concludes that honoring the explorer is justified.

Portray Italians Positively

Do you remember a conversation from long ago that has stuck with you for your entire life? One that is a litmus test that guided important decisions that you’ve made for decades? Michael F. Guarnieri, IADL member, shares a memoir that he frequently reflects on about his Great Uncle Luigi DeDonato, a Fascist in WW2. Read Guarnieri’s account in “Our Italian American Stories” on IADL’s website, or here.

A Visit from Zio Luigi

Just a little context before I talk about my Great Uncle Luigi DeDonato and his visit to us in the 1950s. As those of a certain age know, the memories and scars of WW2 were still a part of our consciousness in the 1950s. Our family lived on the edge of Westville [New Haven], along with many Jewish neighbors for whom the horror of the holocaust was a fresh and seething wound.

Around our kitchen table neighborhood women gathered regularly to play cards with my mother betting dimes and quarters, all hoping for a good night that could net winnings of six or seven dollars. Jewish women would speak about the horrors of the holocaust. I clearly remember hearing one woman’s statement that stayed with me, “It was the Germans. It wasn’t the Italians. The Italians stopped it where they could.” Her statement is largely true according to this article by the United States Holocaust Museum. https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/italy

That said, Zio Luigi had been both the Sindaco (mayor) and the Blackshirt officer in charge of San Lorenzo Maggiore. Luigi told stories of the war, the German occupation, and hiding Jewish families both Italian and foreign in their mountain town to protect them from the Nazis.

He was asked, “What would have happened if the Germans had found you were hiding Jewish people?” He responded, as his Italian was translated to my young self, “Then we would have been killed too; but in Italy we don’t allow people to die because of their religion.”

Zio Luigi who was childless and looking for an heir offered to take me to Italy for the summer. For better or worse, as a nine or ten-year-old who didn’t speak Italian I refused out of fear. I never saw Zio Luigi again but I’ve always remembered his words that remind me to try to be courageous and to do the right thing.

Preserve Traditions

Today is the last day of the Feast of St. Anthony’s Festival at St. Margaret’s Shrine in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Event hours are from 12-9. Go to 2523 Park Ave, Bridgeport, CT for food, family, and fun. Attend mass outdoors at 11 a.m. and afterwards enjoy the day’s events. Learn more about the festival on its Facebook page.

You may know St. Anthony as the saint you pray to when you lose an item you’d like to find. Others may know him as the patron saint of Portugal. Did you know he became a saint quicker than anyone else in history? Read more about St. Anthony, a saint whose life and accomplishments are honored during festivals throughout the world.

Upcoming Events:

Save the date to attend the St. Andrew Society Annual FESTA which takes place from Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 5:00 PM to Sunday, June 25, 2023 at 8:00 PM. The St. Andrew Apostle Society is located at 515 Chapel Street, New Haven, CT, 06511.

Italian-American Defense League is purchasing a table of 10 at the St. Mary Magdalene 125th Anniversary Dinner. The event will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 1 PM to 5 PM at Anthony’s Ocean View, 450 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT, 06512. So far, nine IADL members have committed to attending. We have 1 ticket left for our table. Tickets cost $75 each for appetizers, buffet, and open bar. Email Matt at iadlnow@yahoo.com or call him at (860)-552–9597 if you would like to attend.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

The Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade is scheduled for October 8, 2023 on Madison Avenue in Bridgeport’s North End.

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

June 4, 2023

Update: Italian-American Defense League is working with Pattis & Smith Law Firm to return Wooster Square’s Columbus statue to its pedestal. The two ways to fund this legal process online are through PayPal and Go Fund Me. You can also send a check to: Italian-American Defense League, 23 Lochbourne Drive, Clinton, CT 06413. Let’s preserve our heritage and American history. If you are a donor, but haven’t joined IADL, fill out the online form using this link. Membership is free. Donations are not tax-deductible.

In other news, is this manufactured outrage or bigoted speech? New York City Councilman Chi Osse described Dragonetti Brothers Landscaping, a city contractor convicted of insurance fraud, at a city council hearing. Osse’s remarks were criticized for associating Dragonetti’s Italian last name with criminal behavior. Osse stated, “That name alone should have been the first red flag in terms of contracting with the city.” Does this mean that none of the other facts of the case matter, only that Dragonetti Brothers have an Italian surname? Read the New York Post article in its entirety using this link.

Promote Education

Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations (COPOMIAO) filed a petition to the United States Supreme Court to hear its case against the City of Philadelphia for discriminating against Italian Americans by replacing Columbus Day, an Italian heritage holiday with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a Native American heritage holiday. The 140-page document, which you can skim or read here, delves into the facts of the case and the association of Columbus Day with Italian heritage. According to the petition, the replacement of the Italian heritage holiday is “obliterating the longstanding statutory and historical association of Italian Americans with Christopher Columbus, enshrined in the deeply rooted historical celebration of Columbus Day for over a century.” For more about the history of Columbus Day, read this article posted on COPOMIAO’s website.

On June 17, 2023, Italian-American Defense League will humbly accept its induction into COPOMIAO with six other new inductees at a meeting in New York City. The total number of organizations in COPOMIAO will increase to 63, making COPOMIAO the largest association of Italian heritage organizations in history.

Portray Italians Positively

Connecticut radio personality and icon, John LaBarca passed away at the age of 75 on Monday. The WICC host of “Italian House Party” was born in Brooklyn, earned the Purple Heart in Vietnam, and was a part of several Italian heritage organization and charities. Read this Connecticut Post article about LaBarca. Christopher Caruso, the President of Council of Italian American Societies, wrote these words as a tribute to the radio superstar:

As President of the Council of Italian American Societies of Greater Bridgeport, I offer my personal and our organization’s sincere condolences and heartfelt prayers to the family and friends on the recent passing of John LaBarca.

As another day goes by, reality begins to set in on the passing of John LaBarca or “JLB” as some affectionately called him. With the exception of audio and video recordings, his radio voice is now silent, but his legacy of performing acts of goodwill and his “larger than life” personality are timeless. For those of us who are of Italian descent, our community has lost a friend, devoted supporter and storyteller supreme.

Continue reading the memorial tribute here.

Preserve Traditions

Today we honor an Italian-American cultural institution for two reasons: honoring tradition and breaking tradition. How can that be? The Council of Italian American Societies of Greater Bridgeport selected Nancy DiNardo as the 2023 Grand Marshal of the Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade. DiNardo will be the first female Grand Marshal in the 115-year history of the parade. DiNardo is the Chair of the CT Democratic Party and wants to spread awareness about Italian culture and the contributions of Italian people to the community. Note that the Bridgeport parade honors tradition by continuing to associate Italian heritage with the great explorer, Christopher Columbus. Read the entire article here.

Upcoming Events:

IAA-Massachusetts is once again hosting FESTA ITALIANA, an Italian Style Festival, on June 10, 2023 (rain date June 11th) from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at the Waltham Commons, 610 Main Street, Waltham, Massachusetts. The main purpose of the event is to celebrate and promote our ITALIAN culture and heritage. It's a fun-filled day of live entertainment, music, dancing, food, crafts, children’s amusements, games, activities, culture, etc. The event aims at pleasing everyone, young and old. In past years, we have achieved tremendous success by having a bustling attendance in the thousands and much positive feedback.

Italian-American Defense League is purchasing a table of 10 at the St. Mary Magdalene 125th Anniversary Dinner. The event will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 1 PM to 5 PM at Anthony’s Ocean View, 450 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT, 06512. So far, six IADL members have committed to attending. We have 4 tickets left for our table. Tickets cost $75 each for appetizers, buffet, and open bar. Email Matt at iadlnow@yahoo.com or call him at (860)-552–9597 if you would like to attend.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

The Greater Bridgeport Columbus Day Parade is scheduled for October 8, 2023 on Madison Avenue in Bridgeport’s North End.

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

May 28, 2023

Thanks to your support, IADL met its second fundraising goal. Now we will be able to represent the will of Italian-American Defense League members and Connecticut Italians in court. Numbers matter, so no matter how big or small, more donations are welcome. We anticipate that the legal process will be long. The two ways to donate online are through PayPal and Go Fund Me. You can also send a check to: Italian American Defense League, 23 Lochbourne Drive, Clinton, CT 06413. Let’s preserve our heritage and American history. Donations are not tax-deductible.

Promote Education

In October 1943, the U.S. Fifth Army was on the west coast of Italy with the Matese Mountains on one side, which were very hard to get through. The Fifth Army and the British Eighth Army were supposed to move forward together, but they had to coordinate their movements because the enemy could attack them from the sides. The area in front of the Fifth Army was difficult for attacking because there were mountains and narrow roads. The Allied planners wanted to use flanking amphibious vehicles and planes to help, but they didn't have enough people or supplies. The terrain and weather made matters more difficult.

In the coastal area, there were flat plains and then hills covered with olive trees. Inland, there were tall rocky peaks and deep gorges. There were two good roads that went through this area and led to Rome. One road followed the coast and the other went through the mountains.

General Alexander gave General Clark the task of taking control of the high areas between Sessa Aurunca and Venafro. To do this, they had to cross the Volturno River, which was defended by the enemy. Source: https://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/USA/USA-MTO-Salerno/USA-MTO-Salerno-12.html

For a detailed account of rearguard action up the Volturno Valley, read this history.army.mil text.

Portray Italians Positively

In honor of Memorial Day, read the story of fifteen Italian-American soldiers (If you open the link in a Google browser, you may have to click “translate” to read the article in English), heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice to save the world and liberate Italy during World War II. This long-forgotten platoon is remembered today. Two of these men have ties to Connecticut.

“The "Silver Star" and "Purple Heart" were awarded to all the "fifteen: Sgt De Flumeri, Sgt Vieceli, T / 5 Tremonte (also awarded the" Bronze Arrowhead "), T / 5 Sirico, T / 5 Leone, T / 5 Libardi, T / 5 Squatrito rest in the Florence American Cemetery; Sgt Noia and Lt Traficante in the Calvary Cemetery in Woodside, NY; Lt Russo in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery of Upper Montclair, NJ, T / 5 Mauro in St. John's Cemetery in Middle Village NY, T / 5 Calcara in Mazara del Vallo and a park in Detroit is dedicated to him, T / 5 Farrell (also awarded the Bronze Arrowhead) in St. Thomas' Cemetery in Fairfield Connecticut, T / 5 Di Sclafani in the Cypress Hills Cemetery, NY, T / 5 Savino in the Long Island National Cemetery in East Farmingdale NY.”

According to la Repubblicca, “Joseph M Farrell (service N. 31329287) was born in Stamford, Connecticut, on April 17, 1922 from an American father of Italian origin and an Italian mother (Carmela De Mattia of Eboli, Salerno province). The archival documents related to him provided a moving view on another, better known mission that occurred shortly before operation Ginny: Joseph had participated in the Anzio landing on January 22, 1944 and on this shore he earned the "Bronze Arrowhead", the small arrowhead- shaped device worn on the service ribbon.”

Read this excerpt about Liberty J. Tremonte. “Liberty J.Tremonte (service No. 31329179). His first name expresses the spirit that inspired him all life long. His father Edoardo had emigrated to the United States from Serino (Avellino); his mother Vita Renzulli from San Michele a Serino. Liberty was born February 16, 1920 in Westport, Connecticut. He had four sisters and four brothers. All of his brothers were in the military (three during WWII and the youngest, Albert, in Korea). In August 1943, Liberty writes a letter to his sister Carmela: "Hi Sis, maybe it won't be too long before we see each other again. It's a very nice place up here, we do lots of exercise that's the most important part in this outfit. We are called the Gorillas, imagine a little shrimp like me being a gorilla. I'm somewhere in Washington, that's all I can tell you. This is a very secret outfit.”

Honor everyday men who became our fallen heroes, preserving freedom for future generations.

Preserve Traditions

Now we shift from Memorial Day in the United Sates to National Republic Day in Italy, known as Festa della Repubblica. The national holiday which takes place on June 2 annually is similar to our Fourth of July holiday in the United States. The day celebrates the decision of the Italian people to choose a republic over a monarchy after WWII in 1946. According to Italy Magazine, “Italians chose to become a Republic with 12,717,923 votes versus 10,719,284 votes for the monarchy and as a consequence, the male descendants of the House of Savoy were sent into exile.” Read more about the history of Festa della Repubblica in Italian and English here.

Upcoming Events:

Italian-American Defense League is purchasing a table of 10 at the St. Mary Magdalene 125th Anniversary Dinner. The event will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 1 PM to 5 PM at Anthony’s Ocean View, 450 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT, 06512. So far, six IADL members have committed to attending. We have 4 tickets left for our table. Tickets cost $75 each for appetizers, buffet, and open bar. Email Matt at iadlnow@yahoo.com or call him at (860)-552–9597 if you would like to attend.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

May 21, 2023

What a busy week! The Italian-American Defense League is close to meeting its fundraising goal of $15,000 to file its lawsuit to return New Haven’s Christopher Columbus statue to Wooster Square. Donors have been reaching out to IADL via personal checks, PayPal, and Go Fund Me. Thank you to everyone who has gotten us this far!

Take us to the finish line by raising the last $1,000 to file the lawsuit. No donation is too small, and the number of donors matters. The more we have, even with a small donation, shows strength in numbers and unity. Here is the Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/5466dd29 . Let’s preserve our heritage and American history. Donations are not tax-deductible.

Promote Education

During World War I, approximately 300,000 men of Italian descent served in the US armed forces. It is estimated that up to 10% of American casualties were of Italian descent. In Connecticut and 20 other states, May 24, 1920, was celebrated as Italy-America Day, marking the fifth anniversary of Italy's entry into the war. The day was organized by the Italy-America Society, founded by Charles E. Hughes, a US statesman and diplomat, to counter German propaganda against the US in Italy. The celebration aimed to recognize Italy's contributions to the war and honor its achievements in the arts and science.

Italy-America Day provided Italian immigrant communities with a chance to garner attention and foster positive relationships with local and national establishments. It allowed them to showcase their patriotism, especially in a year marked by growing nativism. The front page of La Sentinella, an Italian-language newspaper, documented the events of the day. Source: https://ctdigitalnewspaperproject.org/2019/05/italy-america-day-may-24-1920-connecticut-italian-americans-recognized-for-war-service/

Portray Italians Positively

In the May 22, 1920 edition of La Sentinella, the proclamation of Clifford B. Wilson, mayor of Bridgeport and lieutenant governor of Connecticut, was recorded. Wilson’s words portrayed Italians positively and cemented Italy’s relationship and shared values with the United States.

Five years ago, Italy entered the world war on the side of humanity and justice. Her part was one of the most conspicuous in that great struggle for the preservation of freedom. We do well to observe that anniversary in this country. A proper recognition of this event will cement the people of this country and Italy into a closer bond of friendship and sympathy. Italy's national aspirations are truly democratic and her aims and purposes similar to those of our own country. The genius of Italy stands out prominently in art, letters, and science and our own population of Italian blood has given much to advance America in every direction. I therefore proclaim May 24th as a day for observing the fifth anniversary of Italy's entrance into the war and the part she played for the cause of humanity and righteousness,' and I urge our people to display the American flag and that of Italy on this day as a mark of appreciation and in commemoration of this event. I would also commend the purchase of Italian bonds which are to be sold for the purpose of rehabilitating Italy and providing her with the necessities of life.

Attention IADL MEMBERS! Do you have a story to tell about a person of Italian descent who impacted your life or society positively? IADL would like to feature, “Our Italian American Stories” in this section of our newsletter. Keep your writing to 500 words or less and include a photo. We’ll also post the stories and photos online. IADL reserves the right to edit your piece before its publication. Don’t worry about your writing ability, IADL will assist you. Email IADL with any questions at iadlnow@yahoo.com.

Preserve Traditions

Coincidentally, the date of Italy-America day is close to another important date in history. Christopher Columbus died at the age of 55 on May 20, 1506. Columbus strongly believed in divine intervention throughout his life and saw himself as a Christ-like figure, bearing the burden of carrying Christianity across the ocean. He made four transatlantic voyages between 1492 and 1504, and during that time faced serious health issues including gout and arthritis. In Valladolid, Spain, on May 20, 1506, Christopher Columbus, with his two brothers and two sons at his side, spoke his final words, expressing his surrender of his spirit with the phrase in Latin "In manus tuas, Domine, commendo spiritum meum.” In English that means, “Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit." Source: https://www.historytoday.com/archive/months-past/death-christopher-columbus

Upcoming Events:

Italian-American Defense League plans to purchase a table of 10 at the St. Mary Magdalene 125th Anniversary Dinner. The event will take place on Sunday, July 23, 2023, from 1 PM to 5 PM at Anthony’s Ocean View, 450 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT, 06512. So far, three IADL members have committed to attending. We have 7 tickets left for our table. Tickets cost $75 each for appetizers, buffet, and open bar. Email Matt at iadlnow@yahoo.com or call him at (860)-552–9597 if you would like to attend.

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.

IADL Newsletter

May 14, 2023

Thank you for believing in the mission of Italian-American Defense League to promote education, portray Italians positively, and preserve traditions. Individuals are rallying behind IADL’s Columbus Monument Task Force as it raises money to file a lawsuit against the City of New Haven for illegally removing Wooster Square’s Columbus statue. As you know, legal fees are expensive. After initially raising $10,000 for research and a report by Attorney Kevin Smith, now we must meet an additional goal of $15,000 to file the suit by June 17, 2023.

IADL has good news! After one week of fundraising, through donations and pledges, IADL is halfway to its goal. If 130 IADL members and subscribers donate $100 each, that equals $13,000. If you cannot donate $100 IADL understands, and if you can donate more, IADL welcomes your support. No one can save Italian American heritage but us. Historical research and the presentation of facts to politicians has not worked alone. Legal action is the next necessary step. Now is the time!

Checks can be mailed to:

Italian-American Defense League

c/o Matthew Guarnieri

23 Lochbourne Drive

Clinton, CT 06413

or donated through PayPal (credit cards are accepted) at this link. Donations are NOT tax-deductible. If you have any questions or concerns, contact IADL directly at iadlnow@yahoo.com or (860) 552–9597. Share the donation link with family, friends, and colleagues.

Do Italians celebrate Mother’s Day? The answer is YES! A culture that centers life on family and respect for the matriarch, there is no doubt that honoring mothers would be adopted in Italy. Mother’s Day is an American tradition that found its way back across the Atlantic, showing the influence of American Italians on their relatives and friends.

In Italy, la mamma is the cornerstone of the home and celebrated by her family all year round. Still, every second Sunday of May, we bambini and adults alike jump to lavish our mothers with flowers and gifts for La Festa della Mamma.

Mother’s Day was first celebrated in Italy in May 1957, about 50 years after it was founded in the United States. A parish priest began the tradition in Assisi, a beautiful hillside town in Umbria, with great festivities. Many in the surrounding cities got word and joined the appreciation of the women whose unconditional love and hard work helped them become who they are. The day was so successful that just one year later, the holiday was adopted across Italy’s 20 regions (Source: https://www.eataly.com/us_en/magazine/culture-and-tradition/mothers-day-in-italy). Happy Mother’s Day!

Promote Education

Laura A. Malacuso, historian and author, documents the local history of New Haven. Malacuso commented on this New Haven Independent article about the history of Wooster Square’s Columbus statue. She wrote what the statue represents and how the monument is connected to a wider American narrative. She agrees that the erection of the Columbus statue was monumental in a state where the Protestant Yankee identity was dominant, opening the door to other ethnic groups:

To follow-up on Jason's discussion of the Columbus Monument, this object is (was?) unique not only in New Haven, but in the State of Connecticut. It was the first public monument erected by an ethnic group in a state where Protestant Yankee identity was almost absolute. Italians were making a very visible statement that they, too, belonged here--with their own customs and religion intact. And, they made this space for their identity by acquiring the Wooster Square Congregational Church, renamed and redecorated as St. Michael's R.C. Church, and by erecting the Columbus Monument, both on Wooster Square, both in the same decade.

Furthermore, the erection of the statue connects a non-Protestant Yankee immigrant group to a broader American immigrant narrative, leading to opportunities of freedom and liberty. Malacuso commented that it wasn’t easy to watch the statue come down in June 2020.

In a city with rich Italian American history, there are surprisingly few objects to use that speak to this moment in time, when a marginalized population used the medium of monuments--once the purview of the elite, white Yankee class--to proclaim their presence. Echoes of this shift are happening again, and rightfully so, but I'm not going to say what happened this week was easy to watch. The context of the Columbus Monument is tied to that of the Statue of Liberty, in both the medium and the message. But, it was too late for all that.

From page 122-124 of The Public Artscape of New Haven (2018), Malacuso shares the statue’s historical connection not only to East Haven, but to the Statue of Liberty and to other cities in the United States.

The monument as installed in the south-west corner of the square is a standing bronze figure of Columbus, placed on a pyramidal base of rusticated brownstone blocks from East Haven, bookended with layers of grey granite. The larger-than-life sized figure (approximately 9 feet tall) holds a small globe in his left hand, and once held calipers in his right hand, which have since disappeared. But there are two important facts forgotten in regards to this Columbus: first--the monument is not unique--four other copies of the design exist around the country and second, the original Columbus monument in Wooster Square was manufactured in copper, not bronze. The bronze figure as viewed today was a replacement installed in 1955, after the copper has deteriorated from harsh cleanings...the use of copper sheeting over interior steel armatures to create public art was well-known to Americans and especially immigrants as the Statue of Liberty, dedicated in 1886, was constructed using the same technique.

If you are interested in reading more of Malacuso’s work, here are titles of two of her books: Chapter 5, "Public Art as Social Engineer: Changing Fortune for Christopher Columbus" in The Public Artscape of New Haven, Themes in the Creation of a City Identity (2018) and New Haven's Columbus Day Parade and Monument (2017).

What a shame that this piece of American history was removed!

Portray Italians Positively

Congratulations to the mayor of Johnston, Rhode Island! Mayor Joe Polisena, Jr. will accept the Columbus statue that former Providence Mayor Joe Paolino purchased from the capital city. The former Providence statue’s new home will be Johnston’s War Memorial Park. “I really think that the majority of people do not find the statue offensive,” Polisena said. The statue was removed three years ago as a result of the social justice movement. Read the entire news story here.

The second congratulations of today’s newsletter goes to the Serie A Napoli soccer team. After 33 years, the team is back on top as champions of the Italian soccer league. This article takes a look at the team’s history, triumph, and outlook for the future. Watch highlights from the team’s final game of the season which ensured its first place finish. Enjoy!

Preserve Traditions

According to Walk New Haven Cultural Heritage Tours, Society of Santa Maria Maddalena is one of the oldest Italian heritage groups in Connecticut. “Immigrants from the town of Atrani in the Salerno Province of Italy who settled in Wooster Square, founded the Society of Santa Maria Maddalena on May 1, 1898. Named for their patron saint, this mutual aid society assisted Atrani immigrants with housing, employment, English translating, and legal matters.

Upcoming Events:

IAA-Connecticut asks you to save this date, September 10, 2023 for Festa Italiana at 13 Beaver Street in New Britain, CT. Enjoy Italian food, culture and fun!

Donations are NOT tax-deductible.