By: Andre' DiMino, President, Italian American One Voice Coalition History is not a static record of dates and names; it is a living narrative that reflects who we were, who we are, and how communities found their place in the American story. For Italian Americans, no figure embodies this more clearly than Christopher Columbus.To generations of Italian Americans, Columbus is not celebrated simply as a navigator of the 15th century. He became an iconic symbol of acceptance at a time when Italia [...]
Author Richard Hayes You’ve just arrived in the United States. Everything feels new and different — the streets, the sounds, the people. Finding your footing means more than unpacking your bags. It means stepping into a world with unfamiliar customs, language, and rhythms. How do you connect? How do you thrive? Here’s a straightforward guide for embracing your new community while holding tight to the ties that brought you here.Learn to Speak the Language FluentlySpeaking Engli [...]
Author Andre DiMino, IAOVC President On June 2, 2025, Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, erupted dramatically, captivating observers and prompting comparisons with its storied past. This eruption, originating from the volcano's southeast crater, was marked by a significant pyroclastic flow—a fast-moving current of hot gas, ash, and volcanic matter—that traveled approximately two kilometers into the Valle del Leone. Such flows are rare for Etna, with the last comparable [...]
By: Brittany Fisher Taking meaningful action in your community isn’t about grand gestures or having unlimited resources—it’s about using what you have, where you are, to make a difference. Whether you’re passionate about social justice, access to healthcare, environmental sustainability, or education reform, the key is turning your beliefs into tangible steps that create lasting impact. Too often, people assume they need to be in a position of power to drive change, but [...]
Author Brittany Fisher Lifelong learning is crucial for community leaders seeking to maintain their effectiveness and adaptability in leadership roles. It offers a foundation for continuous improvement and the development of new skills essential for navigating complex challenges. As leaders engage in ongoing education, they not only enhance their own capabilities but also set a powerful example for others in their communities. Here are some tips to get you started, courtesy of the Italian Ameri [...]
Author Tony Silvestri, Member of the Italian American One Voice Coalition New Year’s Eve in Italy, or La Festa di San Silvestro, is nothing short of magical. The night brims with traditions that mix old superstitions, family warmth, and festive fun. Here’s a peek into how Italians say “arrivederci” to the old year and “ciao” to the new!Red for Luck (and Love!)Donning red underwear isn’t just for fashion—it’s a time-honored Italian tradition [...]
Author Andre' DiMino, President IAOVC In furtherance of our continuing efforts to bridge cultures, in an unprecedented move, Italian American organizations from around the country have joined together to urge greater recognition of November as National Native American Heritage Month. This is as a result of the ongoing alliance formed earlier this year among Native Americans, Italian Americans and other groups in monthly, virtual meetings called “Solidarity Sessions – Bridging [...]
Author Frank Lorenzo, IAOVC Executive Vice President When most people hear the words – civil rights - the very last group that comes to mind is Italian Americans. Most people see us as an example of an ethnic group that made a very successful assimilation into American society. It is true that we have made great strides since our ancestors first arrived on these shores, but this is only because we had advocates in our community that fought hard for our civil rights. We c [...]
Thank you!!!!The New Hampshire Governor and State Legislature did the right thing - they passed a LAW that requires New Hampshire cities and towns to recognize the second Monday in October as COLUMBUS DAY - BRAVO!!!Hall of Fame???It is only fitting that our organization, IAOVC, elected Governor Sununu and the State Legislature to the IAOVC Hall of Fame for passage of HB 1014, which mandates, by state law, that cities and towns are now required to recognize Columbus Day on the second Monday in Oc [...]
The decision to open a local business presents both immense opportunities and a spectrum of challenges. Being proactive, informed, and well-prepared can be the key differentiators between success and stumbling blocks. A rigorous research phase and a solid preparation strategy can significantly enhance the probability of your business's success. In this article, Italian American One Voice Coalition sheds light on the pivotal steps necessary for the effective research and preparation of launching your local business. Start by Researching Regulations Each municipality, whether it's a quaint town or bustling city, establishes its distinct rules and directives designed specifically for businesses operating within its boundaries. Diligently acquainting yourself with these regulations is paramount, as they serve as the foundational pillars for any business endeavor. By grasping the nuances of local ordinances, zoning regulations, and industry-related directives, entrepreneurs ensure that their business functions legally and aligns seamlessly with the standards and aspirations of the community. This safeguards against potential legal pitfalls and positions the business for greater acceptance and success within the locale. Get Necessary Licenses and Permits Before opening the doors of a local business, one must secure the essential licenses and permits. This process, although seemingly bureaucratic, is crucial in legitimizing operations. From health department permits to sales tax licenses, ensure all necessary paperwork is in place. This avoids legal complications and instills trust in customers and other stakeholders. Put Great Thought Into Your Location A business's location serves as a beacon, influencing its prominence and ease of access for potential customers. In the decision-making process for choosing the ideal spot, entrepreneurs must weigh elements like the volume of pedestrian movement, adjacency to complementary businesses, the availability of parking facilities, and the characteristics of the nearby population.Securing a location that harmoniously aligns with the business's model and intended audience sets the stage for initial attraction, and fosters sustained patronage. Thus, the right location can act as a cornerstone, bolstering the business's growth trajectory and fostering long-term success. Implement a Foolproof Accounting System Financial clarity and accountability are the lifeblood of any successful local business. Implementing an accounting system is instrumental in monitoring expenses, recording income, and understanding profit margins. Beyond mere record-keeping, a well-structured accounting system provides insights that drive strategic business decisions. Draft a Solid Marketing Plan Even the best of businesses need visibility and recognition to thrive. Drafting a thorough marketing blueprint enumerating strategies to reach potential customers is indispensable. Such a plan should cater to both online and offline audiences , leveraging platforms like local newspapers, community bulletin boards, and social media. Preparing for Your Business If you have reservations about launching your business right now, going back to school for a business degree could be a wise decision. Whether you choose to specialize in accounting, business, communications, or management, the skills you learn will equip you to avoid common mistakes and enhance your business acumen. This resource could help bridge the gap between your current knowledge and the expertise needed to successfully manage and grow a business. Additionally, online degree programs offer the flexibility to both run your business and attend classes simultaneously, ensuring you don’t have to choose between advancing your education and pursuing your entrepreneurial ambitions. Pursue Charitable Initiatives Integrating philanthropy into business operations can have multifaceted benefits. Local businesses that support charitable causes give back to the community they operate in and engender a sense of trust and admiration among residents. Such initiatives can position the business as a responsible and caring entity, fostering both customer loyalty and a positive brand image. Setting the stage for a thriving local business requires a balance of rigorous research and proactive preparation. By ensuring regulatory compliance, establishing a strong financial foundation, choosing the right location, and devising an effective marketing strategy, entrepreneurs can pave the way for a successful business journey. Furthermore, intertwining the essence of community and charity into the business fabric can yield unparalleled benefits. As you navigate the road to launching your local enterprise, remember that success often lies at the intersection of preparedness and adaptability. Italian American One Voice Coalition is a national network of activists enabling the Italian American community to act as one united voice when dealing with defamation, discrimination and negative stereotyping. Visit our website to learn more and to support the organization with your tax deductible donation!