Italian American Heritage Month Resources

Flag_of_the_United_States.svg: Dbenbenn, Zscout370, Jacobolus, Indolences, Technion.Flag_of_Italy.svg: see belowderivative work: AwOc, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What is Italian American Heritage Month?

In October 1989, the 101st Congress passed House Joint Resolution 392, creating "Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month." It reads:

Whereas Italians and Italian-Americans have contributed to the United States in all aspects of life, including art, science, civil service, military service, athletics, and education;

Whereas Italian-Americans make up one of the largest ethnic groups in the United States;

Whereas, in recognition of the accomplishments of Christopher Columbus, recognized as one of the greatest explorers in world history and the first to record the discovery of the Americas, a national observance day was established in October of every year;

Whereas the phrase in the Declaration of Independence, ‘All men are created equal’, was suggested by the Italian patriot and immigrant Philip Mazzei;

Whereas during October 1989 special attention will be directed at local and State programs that promote Italian heritage and culture, with special emphasis on national programs such as the Italian Heritage Center at Catholic University of America; and

Whereas during October 1989 the National Italian American Foundation will host the 14th annual dinner to honor Italians and Italian-Americans making important contributions to the development of the arts, sciences, athletics, and education in the United States: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That October 1989 is designated as ‘Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month’, and the President of the United States is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Is Columbus Day still a federal holiday?

Yes. Per last year's Presidential Proclamation:

"In 1492, Christopher Columbus sailed from the Spanish port of Palos de la Frontera on behalf of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II, but his roots trace back to Genoa, Italy. The story of his journey remains a source of pride for many Italian Americans whose families also crossed the Atlantic. His voyage inspired many others to follow and ultimately contributed to the founding of America, which has been a beacon for immigrants across the world.

"Many of these immigrants were Italian, and for generations, Italian immigrants have harnessed the courage to leave so much behind, driven by their faith in the American dream — to build a new life of hope and possibility in the United States. Today, Italian Americans are leaders in all fields, including government, health, business, innovation, and culture.

"Things have not always been easy; prejudice and violence often stalled the promise of equal opportunity. In fact, Columbus Day was created by President Harrison in 1892 in response to the anti-Italian motivated lynching of 11 Italian Americans in New Orleans in 1891.  During World War II, Italian Americans were even targeted as enemy aliens.  But the hard work, dedication to community, and leadership of Italian Americans in every industry make our country stronger, more prosperous, and more vibrant.  The Italian American community is also a cornerstone of our Nation’s close and enduring relationship with Italy — a vital NATO Ally and European Union partner.  Today, the partnership between Italy and the United States is at the heart of our efforts to tackle the most pressing global challenges of our time, including supporting Ukraine as it defends its freedom and democracy."