Preserving Italian American traditions and language is of paramount importance to our community. Many Italian Americans actively pass down their cultural heritage to future generations, ensuring that their customs and traditions are not lost.

Italian language schools and cultural centers play a crucial role in this preservation effort. They offer language classes, cultural workshops, and educational programs that help Italian Americans connect with their roots. By preserving the Italian language and traditions, Italian Americans ensure that their rich heritage continues to thrive for years to come.

The Future of the Italian American Experience
As the Italian American community continues to evolve, the future holds both challenges and opportunities. While the number of Italian speakers in the US has declined over the years, there is a growing interest among younger generations in embracing their Italian heritage.

The Italian American experience will continue to be shaped by the interplay between tradition and assimilation. As Italian Americans navigate their dual identity, they will undoubtedly find new ways to celebrate their heritage while contributing to the diverse fabric of American society.

The Italian American experience is a testament to the resilience, perseverance, and cultural richness of a community that has left an indelible mark on American society. From their humble beginnings as immigrants to their present-day contributions in various fields, Italian Americans have carved out a unique space for themselves.

Navigating the complexities of identity and heritage, Italian Americans continue to honor their roots while embracing the opportunities America has to offer. Through their cultural contributions, Italian Americans have enriched the American tapestry, shaping the nation's cuisine, arts, entertainment and actually every aspect of life in America.

As we celebrate the Italian American experience, let us recognize the profound impact our community has had on American society and appreciate the values of family, hard work, and heritage that we hold dear.

Help preserve your heritage by getting involved with the Italian American One Voice Coalition ("IAOVC").  IAOVC has individual and organization members across the USA that join together to speak with one voice in defending, preserving and celebrating our rich culture and heritage.  Become a member of IAOVC!

Italian immigration to the United States has played a significant role in shaping the cultural and social fabric of America. But what were the reasons behind the substantial influx of Italian immigrants to the US and when did the key periods occur.

Economic Factors: A primary reason for the mass migration of Italians to the United States was the dire economic conditions in Italy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Widespread poverty, limited job opportunities, and low wages motivated many Italians to seek better prospects in America. The industrialization and rapid economic growth experienced by the United States during this period acted as a magnet, attracting Italian workers to industries such as mining, manufacturing, and construction.

Political and Social Instability: Political and social instability also contributed to the surge of Italian immigration. Italy faced numerous challenges, including a lack of political unity and economic disparities among its regions. The unification of Italy in 1861 and subsequent social unrest further prompted many Italians, especially from the south and Sicily, to seek a more stable and promising future in the United States.  Italian immigrants were subjected to wide discrimination and denigration in their new country, but they persevered and were proud to become Americans.

Chain Migration and Family Networks: Chain migration played a crucial role in sustaining the flow of Italian immigrants to the United States. The initial wave of Italian migrants, often young men seeking employment, would establish themselves in American cities. Over time, they would sponsor family members, creating a network that facilitated further migration. This pattern of family-based immigration ensured a continuous stream of Italian newcomers to the United States.

Peak Immigration Years: The most significant waves of Italian immigration occurred between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The largest influx took place between 1880 and 1920 when approximately 4 million Italians migrated to the United States. The peak years were between 1900 and 1914, with over 2.5 million Italian immigrants arriving during this period.

Conclusion: Italian immigration to the United States was driven by economic hardships, political instability, and the promise of better opportunities. The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the most substantial waves of Italian migration, which left an indelible mark on American society. 

We owe a debt to our ancestors who struggled to create a life in their new country. The Italian American One Voice Coalition ("IAOVC") is a great way to repay that debt by honoring and defending our great heritage.  Join us!

June 19, 2023: On this solemn day, we commemorate the one-year anniversary of the passing of Dr. Manny Alfano, a revered figure in the Italian American community. As the founder of the Italian American One Voice Coalition (IAOVC), Dr. Alfano dedicated his life to defending and preserving the rich heritage and culture of Italian Americans. His unwavering commitment to combating stereotypes and denigration has left an indelible mark on the Italian American community and beyond.

Dr. Alfano's Tireless Advocacy: In 1992, Dr. Alfano founded the IAOVC, a non-profit organization aimed at promoting positive portrayals of Italian Americans in media, combating discrimination, and preserving their cultural legacy through education and advocacy. Throughout his tenure, he spearheaded numerous campaigns and initiatives to raise awareness about the contributions and achievements of Italian Americans, while combating negative stereotypes perpetuated by the media.  Dr. Alfano's work received widespread recognition and praise during his lifetime.

Impact and Continuing the Legacy: Dr. Alfano's passing has undoubtedly left a void within the Italian American community. However, his legacy lives on through the ongoing work of the IAOVC, which remains dedicated to advocating for Italian American rights, fostering cultural appreciation, and combating negative portrayals, ensuring that future generations can embrace their heritage with pride.

Conclusion: As we mark the one-year anniversary of Dr. Manny Alfano's passing, we honor his memory by recognizing the immeasurable contributions he made to the Italian American community. His establishment of the IAOVC, along with his tireless advocacy, has had a lasting impact on the preservation of Italian American heritage and culture. Let us remember his indomitable spirit and strive to carry forward his legacy by championing the principles he held dear. In doing so, we ensure that future generations will appreciate the rich and diverse tapestry of Italian Americans.

Join us as we continue Dr. Alfano’s legacy by becoming an Individual Member or as an Organization Member.  And, help us by making a tax-deductible donation.
 

America is a country of great diversity, with people from all over the world calling it home. Each group brings its own unique heritage, traditions, and culture, creating a rich tapestry that is the fabric of the American society. It is important for Americans to honor and defend their heritage, not only to preserve their cultural identity but also to maintain a sense of unity and mutual respect within the diverse population.  Of course, we are Americans first, but we should respect our heritage.
The importance of heritage can be seen in its ability to provide a sense of belonging and identity. It connects people to their past, their ancestors, and their cultural roots. This is especially important for immigrants, who often leave behind everything they know to start a new life in a foreign country. By honoring and preserving their heritage, they can maintain a connection to their roots while still embracing their new home.
Another reason why it is important to honor and defend heritage is that it promotes mutual respect and understanding among different groups of people. When people learn about each other's traditions and customs, they gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another. This understanding leads to a greater sense of empathy and tolerance, which can help to build stronger communities and a more cohesive society.
Heritage preservation is vital for future generations. By passing down cultural traditions and values, children and grandchildren develop a greater understanding and appreciation for their cultural roots. This instills a sense of pride and identity, helping to navigate the challenges of growing up in a complex and diverse society.
As a nation of immigrants, we should be mindful and respectful of each other's cultural heritage, recognizing the value it brings to our society as a whole.
The Italian American One Voice Coalition (“IAOVC”) is dedicated to educating and defending our Italian American heritage and culture.  IAOVC is comprised of Italian American Organization Members and individual members across the USA joined together in a Coalition to speak with One Voice in defense of our heritage.  Join us!

Mayor Lori Lightfoot is the first Chicago mayor in 40 years to lose re-election.  Political pundits say that there are lots of contributing factors to this historic loss.  Some say a very strong factor was her removal of the Columbus statues and some vile comments she made in response to those protesting her attack on Italian American identity.  Her actions riled up Italian American voters in Chicago - and across the USA.  The IAOVC joined with Italian Americans in Chicago to protest Mayor Lightfoot’s attack on Columbus.
 
Lightfoot lost the election almost to the day after a group of attorneys filed suit against her for her vulgar comments made against protesters of the Columbus statue removal.  She has been at the center of a controversial debate surrounding the removal of the Columbus statue in Chicago for the past two years.
 
Italian Americans in Chicago came out in force to protest the removal of the Columbus statues which they see as an insult to their heritage.  In fact, a lawsuit was filed against Mayor Lightfoot by a group of Italian Americans who protested the removal of the Columbus statue. They claimed that the mayor had offended them by removing the statue without consulting the community and by implying that Columbus was a symbol of racism and oppression, based on the fabricated false facts perpetrated by Howard Zinn, the self-declared Marxist and anarchist who hated America and wanted to destroy it by attacking the underpinnings of Western Culture in his 1980 history book.  For over 4 decades, The Zinn Education project continues to indoctrinate and brainwash students with his ant-American falsehoods and attacks on Columbus and other historic figures.
 
It is an insult not just to Italian Americans but also to American history to remove the Columbus statue based on false accusations against Columbus. Columbus is crucial figure in American history for his unprecedented achievement that united the continents and brought Western culture to this part of the world.  He should be celebrated for his contributions to the country's founding.
 
Perhaps Lightfoot’s historic loss should be a warning to elected officials to not insult Italian American heritage and culture and stop perpetrating the falsehoods about Columbus.

     One of the purest examples of pride and patriotism was on full view for the millions of worldwide viewers of Super Bowl LVII.  Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni's passionate reaction was a sight to behold as tears streamed down his face during our National Anthem.  They say that Italian Americans are a passionate and emotional people - Coach Sirianni certainly proved that last night!  As we saw his raw emotions it was obvious that this was an incredibly special moment for him, as well as for all of us.  And, although his team did not win, he won our hearts as a great example of an accomplished, passionate, proud and patriotic Italian American.
     Super Bowl LVII was historic for many reasons, but that brief but notable moment coupled with his outstanding career accomplishments, made an important statement.
     Italian Americans are portrayed in a stereotypical manner in the media, being mostly depicted as mobsters, mafiosi, bimbos or buffoons. This reinforces negative and harmful perceptions about Italian Americans and perpetuates discrimination. But Sirianni's expression of passion and pride as well as bringing his team to the Super Bowl, challenges these harmful stereotypes and demonstrates that Italian Americans can excel in various fields and industries.
     It's important for diverse communities to be represented in all aspects of society, including sports. This representation not only helps challenge harmful stereotypes but also inspires young people from underrepresented communities to pursue their dreams and see themselves in successful individuals.
     Nick Sirianni's appearance in the Super Bowl, as an Italian American head coach, is a step forward in promoting positive representation and breaking down harmful stereotypes. The Italian American community should celebrate his achievement and continue to strive for representation in all industries.  And although his Eagles didn't win, he surely won the hearts of everyone!

Italian Americans have long been subject to negative stereotypes in media, dating back to the early days of cinema. These stereotypes, which often depict Italian Americans as mobsters, mafiosos, bimbos and buffoons, have had a damaging impact on the perception of Italian Americans and the way they are treated in society.

Research has shown that exposure to media representations can have real-world consequences – perception becomes reality!

Furthermore, these stereotypes reinforce harmful gender and racial biases. For example, Italian American women are often portrayed as passive and submissive, while Italian American men are depicted as aggressive and macho. These representations perpetuate harmful cultural norms and reinforce oppressive power structures.

Media should take steps to accurately and respectfully represent Italian Americans in their content. This includes avoiding harmful stereotypes and ensuring that Italian Americans are portrayed as fully realized human beings with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. By doing so, media producers can help to reduce prejudice and discrimination against Italian Americans and create a more inclusive and equitable media landscape for all.

IAOVC is dedicated to opposing Italian American stereotypes in media and has a successful and long record of defending Italian American heritage and culture.  Join us and help us in our mission!

The Italian American One Voice Coalition ("IAOVC") is proud to announce the launch of our new blog. This blog will serve as a platform for us to share important information and updates about the mission of our organization. Our goal is to provide a voice for Italian Americans and to educate the public about the rich cultural heritage and contributions of this community. Through this blog, we aim to promote unity and understanding, and to address the critical issues facing Italian Americans today. Stay tuned for posts covering everything from cultural events and history, to political activism and advocacy. Join us on this journey to celebrate and preserve our heritage.