Introduction
IAOVC maintains an active schedule throughout the year in support of its mission. After the passing of its founder and president, Dr. Manny Alfano in 2022, a dinner was held to commemorate IAOVC’s 30th Anniversary and as a memorial to Dr. Alfano. A new slate of officers took the helm and the Board committed to continuing the mission of IAOVC. Below are some selected highlights of the activities of IAOVC in 2023. Dr. Alfano’s newsletter, The Alfano Digest, was resumed, thanks to IAOVC VP Frank Lorenzo. November – 2023 – National IAOVC launched opposition to US Senate Bill S-2970, sponsored by 13 Senators seeking to eliminate Columbus Day and replace it with Indigenous Peoples Day. IAOVC held an emergency video meeting with organizations across the country to begin a phone campaign seeking to have the Bill defeated. October 2023 – National Again this year, IAOVC launched a vigorous media outreach campaign to preempt the annual attacks that occur against Columbus Day. IAOVC’s new President, Andre’ DiMino, made numerous TV, radio, and podcast appearances to dispute the false allegations against Columbus and defend Italian American civil rights. These included TV interviews on Fox News Live and Currents News. Radio interviews on the syndicated Simon Conway Show WHO 1040 Iowa; Len Berman & Michael Reidel Show WOR 710 NYC; Debbie Nigro Show WGCH 1490 CT; The Columbus Day Special WRMI, FL; and, The Drew Mariani international podcast. In addition, DiMino was the TV guest host of the Morris County Columbus Day Parade. September 2023 - Apopka, FL Residents contacted IAOVC about a proposed bill to eliminate Columbus Day to replace it with Indigenous Peoples Day. IAOVC launched a campaign to contact local officials. IAOVC advised that Columbus is an iconic symbol to Italian Americans; provided facts disputing the false narrative about Columbus; informed that August 9 is International Indigenous Peoples Day, as declared by the UN; advised that Italian Americans are a cognizable group under the 14th Amendment of the Constitution; and, warned that placing one group over another is discrimination, violating Italian American civil rights. The campaign was successful – the vote preserved Columbus Day and declared August 9 as Indigenous Peoples Day in that city. August 2023 – St. Louis, MO IAOVC was contacted about a popular radio host on KSHE who made a disparaging on-air stereotype about Italian American women. Andre’ DiMino, IAOVC President contacted management of KSHE and CEO of its corporate owner, Hubbard Radio. He advised that such a blatant stereotype should not be broadcast; it is unacceptable; and, should be publicly retracted with an on-air apology. IAOVC was pleased to receive a response from the CEO and management that they agreed this was unacceptable and would address the matter. The radio host was apologetic and issued that on-air apology. IAOVC commended them for doing the right thing. May 2023 – Federal Litigation As a result of continued filing of responses and briefs to the federal court, IAOVC received notification that its landmark federal suit against West Orange, NJ for removing the Columbus monument moved a step closer to success. The Federal court finally declared that IAOVC had standing to sue on behalf of its members. IAOVC filed the federal suit in September of 2020 through the efforts of IAOVC members and a team of attorneys. They joined together to take this legal stand on behalf of Italian Americans who endured widespread destruction and removal of Columbus statues and monuments around the country. January 2023 – Toms River, NJ Due to a concerted effort by IAOVC coordinating other organizations in the effort, the Toms River School District issued its 2023-2024 school calendar with Columbus Day preserved. It was planned to be eliminated for the new school year. IAOVC launched extensive PR, social media and email campaigns in opposition. IAOVC members attended school board meetings and made public statements on the official record opposing the elimination of Columbus Day. When the new school calendar was issued with Columbus Day preserved, IAOVC issued a public statement thanking the school board.
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Author Brittany Fisher of financiallywell.info Running a nonprofit takes a great deal of effort and dedication. Often, we can find ourselves running on an endless treadmill of work with little time to take a step back and reflect on what we’re doing. While it's hard to slow down when there's always more to be done, taking some time out once in a while makes perfect sense. There are many great apps that you can use to organize your essential tasks, manage your time, and keep track of your business. Here are a few recommendations, courtesy of the Italian American One Voice Coalition.
Accounting In addition to other must-have technology for small business like project and inventory management software, accounting software is vital to any venture nowadays, and you have many options to choose from. Your best bet is using accounting software for your nonprofit that’s specifically designed for that industry. Also, look for tools that allow you to create and send invoices, track expenses and time, and see your business's financial trends. Reducing how much time you spend on bookkeeping and finances each month will allow you to focus on the more essential aspects of your business. Square Accept payments with your smartphone, anywhere. FounderJar explains that Square is a popular mobile payment processing service that makes it easy to accept credit cards and debit cards securely on the go. It also offers real-time analytics for sales, marketing, and invoicing. Trello Keep projects organized by creating boards on Trello. Use the app to create separate boards for different tasks or one board with many projects. It allows you to complete tasks on any card and assign them to specific staff members. You can also attach documents, images, checklists, and comments to cards. Slack Are you tired of spending time on email? Get a team together on Slack. It's a messaging app used to make your company's communications more efficient. Slack allows for fast, accessible communication among group members, no matter where they are. Time Tracking Teambuilding.com notes that you can track how long you spend on different tasks with time tracking software. Many solutions offer an intuitive app that lets you create other jobs, assign them to employees, and track how much time they spend on each task. Look for something that works across all devices, making it easy to keep track of your time on different assignments. Dropbox One way to make sure you always have your information with you is by using Dropbox. With this cloud storage service, you can store and access all your documents, photos, videos, and other files from anywhere. It makes it easy to share your information with other people. The app also offers a scanning tool that lets you quickly create PDF versions of any document on your phone. Running a nonprofit means confronting all sorts of challenges. Luckily, apps like Adobe, Slack, Square, Trello, and Dropbox can help you run your business more effectively, so you can take some quality time away from work. The Italian American One Voice Coalition is a nationwide network of activists that combat discrimination and negative stereotyping through education about Italian American heritage and culture. If you’d like to join us, we offer memberships to individuals for $60 per year and to organizations for $100 per year. You can also make a donation to help us with our mission. No amount is too small, and we are grateful for one-time or recurring donations. To learn more, visit our website or give us a call at 844-862-8623! AuthorAndre' DiMino, Christmas, a season of joy, family, and traditions, is celebrated with unique flair around the world. Let's explore the enchanting differences between how Italian Americans and Italians in Italy celebrate this festive occasion.
Italian Americans, deeply rooted in their immigrant history, have fused their cultural heritage with the American way of life, creating a distinct Christmas celebration. The holiday season often kicks off with grandiose decorations, where homes are adorned with twinkling lights, wreaths, and nativity scenes. The aroma of Italian-American kitchens is filled with the rich scents of holiday delicacies like panettone, cannoli, and struffoli, passed down through generations. Christmas Eve, known as La Vigilia, is a cherished Italian-American tradition. Families gather for the Feast of the Seven Fishes, a seafood-centric meal symbolizing the wait for the midnight birth of Jesus. It's a night filled with laughter, love, and the sharing of ancestral recipes that have stood the test of time. On the other side of the Atlantic, Italians in Italy celebrate Christmas with a cultural richness and historical depth that is truly unique. While decorations adorn homes and town squares, the Italian celebration often revolves around Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. The solemnity of the occasion is followed by a festive Christmas Day feast, featuring regional specialties like tortellini in Bologna or Sicilian cassata. In Italy, the emphasis is on the collective experience, with communities coming together for outdoor markets and intricate nativity displays. Panettone and pandoro, traditional Christmas cakes, take center stage, and the holiday season extends to Epiphany on January 6th, marked by the arrival of La Befana, a mythical gift-giving figure. In essence, both Italian Americans and Italians in Italy share a deep appreciation for family, delicious food, and the joy of Christmas. While the traditions may differ, the spirit of the season remains a testament to the enduring cultural ties that define these rich and diverse celebrations. Whether gathered around a table in New York or Rome, the warmth of Italian Christmas transcends borders, uniting families in the magic of the holiday season. At the Italian American One Voice Coalition we honor and defend our Italian American heritage and culture throughout the year. And, at Christmas we are grateful for the support of our Organization Members and our individual activists who support our efforts all year long. Grazie – Buon Natale! AuthorAndre' DiMino, The United States has celebrated Italian American Heritage and Culture Month in October with some presidential and congressional proclamations that recognize the invaluable contributions of Italian Americans to the nation's culture, history, and society. There have been some presidential proclamations and congressional resolutions issued over the past few decades recognizing Italian American Heritage and Culture Month for that specific year. It is now time for October to be permanently recognized and designated as Italian American Heritage and Culture Month by legislation.
Presidential Proclamations President George H. W. Bush:
Congressional Resolutions Congressional resolutions have also been introduced to commemorate Italian American Heritage and Culture Month in October. While they may not carry the same weight as presidential proclamations, they serve as additional acknowledgments of the community's importance. House Resolution 101-392
The celebration of Italian American Heritage and Culture Month in October has been a longstanding tradition in the United States, celebrated in communities across the US, and sometimes with presidential proclamations and congressional resolutions recognizing the profound contributions of Italian Americans to American society and culture. These declarations serve as a reminder of the diversity and richness of our nation's heritage and the importance of honoring the achievements of all communities. Although we are pleased with these proclamations and resolutions, they were for that one year. It is time to permanently designate October as Italian American Heritage and Culture Month through legislation. The Italian American One Voice Coalition (“IAOVC”) urges everyone to contact their Congressional representatives to request that legislation be introduced and adopted to permanently designate October as Italian American Heritage and Culture Month. To learn more about the IAOVC’s efforts and initiatives in defending and celebrating Italian American heritage and civil rights request our free newsletter, The Alfano Digest. And please consider joining with us as we continue our mission – membership is open to individuals as well as Italian American Organizations. Enjoy Italian American Heritage and Culture Month!!! The Internment of Italian Americans during World War II: A Dark Chapter in American History9/19/2023 AuthorAndre' DiMino, World War II marked a tumultuous period in American history, characterized by patriotism, sacrifice, and unity. However, it was also a time when fear and suspicion led to the internment of innocent American citizens of Italian descent. While the internment of Japanese Americans is more widely known, the internment of Italian Americans remains a lesser-discussed chapter in our nation's history. In this blog post, we will explore the internment of Italian Americans during World War II, including the locations, dates, and the number of Italian Americans interned at each camp.
The internment of Italian Americans was rooted in the fear that they might have ties to Italy or be sympathetic to the Axis powers during World War II. Many Italian immigrants and their descendants were subjected to unjust treatment, including arrests, property seizures, and internment. Thousands of Italian Americans were detained in these camps, often separated from their families and communities. Internment Camps for Italian Americans
The internment of Italian Americans during World War II stands as a somber reminder of the impact of wartime hysteria and prejudice. These internment camps, though lesser known than those for Japanese Americans, played a significant role in shaping the experiences of Italian Americans during this period. It is vital to remember and reflect upon this dark chapter in American history, including the significant number of Italian Americans who endured internment. This reflection is essential to ensure that such injustices are not repeated in the future. As a nation, we must strive to uphold the principles of liberty, justice, and equality for all, regardless of their ethnicity or background. The Italian American One Voice Coalition ("IAOVC") strives to educate about the history of Italian Americans in the United States. By bringing light to that history IAOVC seeks to defend Italian American heritage and culture. Our individual members and Organization members work together to oppose stereotyping, denigration and discrimination of Italian Americans. Join us and help us in our mission. References:
AuthorAndre' DiMino, Are you an American of Italian heritage yearning to connect with your roots and enjoy the best of both worlds? Well, you're in luck! Italy offers a pathway to dual citizenship, allowing you to become both an Italian and an American citizen. Here's a brief guide on how you can achieve this dream:
Buona fortuna! (Good luck!) And, while you may be waiting to achieve your dual citizenship, consider joining the Italian American One Voice Coalition ("IAOVC"). At IAOVC we are dedicated to celebrating and preserving Italian American heritage and culture as well as defending our heritage from stereotyping and discrimination by education and advocacy. Membership is open to both individuals and Italian American organizations. A free subscription is available to our email newsletter, The Alfano Digest, to keep apprised of important items related to our heritage. Join us! AuthorAndre' DiMino, In today’s world, it's alarming that hurtful stereotypes of Italian American women continue to persist in the media. These outdated portrayals perpetuate negative misconceptions and can have far-reaching consequences, not only for the targeted group but for society as a whole. It's time we recognize the harm caused by these stereotypes and work collectively to put an end to them.
The media plays a powerful role in shaping public perceptions. Unfortunately, Italian American women have often fallen victim to caricatures that paint them as overly aggressive, loud, and attached to outdated gender norms. These stereotypes are not only false but damaging, as they contribute to the erosion of self-esteem and hinder societal progress. A glaring stereotype perpetuated is the portrayal of Italian American women as being overly controlling and aggressive. This not only distorts their roles within their families and communities but also perpetuates a perception that undermines their accomplishments and aspirations. Just consider the over-the-top stereotypes in network programming such as Mob Wives, Real Housewives of New Jersey, Jersey Shore, and many others. Such portrayals undermine the diverse array of talents and ambitions Italian American women possess, spanning all fields from art and science to business and politics. Media influences attitudes and beliefs, and these stereotypes contribute to systemic discrimination. When exposed to inaccurate portrayals repeatedly, it is easier to marginalize and dismiss. The consequences are far-reaching: young girls might internalize these stereotypes, hindering their belief in their own potential, while others might engage in biased behaviors and discrimination without realizing it. Enough is enough! Media creators, producers, and writers should prioritize accurate portrayals of Italian American women, showcasing their individuality, strength, and contributions to society. Audiences play a crucial role - by demanding more authentic representations and refusing to support media that perpetuates stereotypes. The Italian American One Voice Coalition (“IAOVC”) is dedicated to opposing denigrating and hurtful stereotypes. They have had numerous successes, such as the recent apology secured from a popular radio station for an unacceptable stereotype of Italian American women. What about you? Join the effort to defend Italian American civil rights by becoming a member or donating to help IAOVC continue the fight. AuthorAndre' DiMino, 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! AuthorAndre' DiMino, In a world where our voices can sometimes feel drowned out or overlooked, finding a platform that amplifies our concerns and unites us is crucial. If you are passionate about celebrating Italian American heritage, advocating for our community's interests, and making a lasting impact, then the free Alfano Digest by the Italian American One Voice Coalition (IAOVC) is the perfect opportunity for you.
By signing up for the free Alfano Digest, you can become an essential part of a movement that strives to empower and uplift Italian Americans across the nation. Here are a few key reasons to sign up! Empowering Italian American Voices: The Alfano Digest offers a platform to raise your voice and be heard. By subscribing to this dynamic newsletter, you gain access to a wealth of information, updates, and stories related to Italian American culture, history, and contemporary issues. Celebrating Italian American Heritage: The IAOVC is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Italian Americans. The Alfano Digest is a gateway to discovering fascinating stories, traditions, and accomplishments of Italian Americans throughout history. From renowned artists and inventors to influential politicians and community leaders, the newsletter sheds light on the achievements of our community, instilling a sense of pride and inspiring the next generation to carry the torch forward. You will also be notified of educational activism events and other IAOVC alerts requesting action from the community. Advocating for Community Interests: The Alfano Digest is not just about celebrating our past; it is also a powerful tool for shaping our future. By signing up, you become part of a community of individuals passionate about advocating for Italian American interests. The newsletter keeps you informed about important legislative issues, policy changes, and community initiatives that impact our lives. With this knowledge, you can engage in meaningful advocacy efforts, supporting causes that matter to you and making a tangible difference for the Italian American community. Networking and Building Community: When you sign up for the Alfano Digest, you join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for Italian American heritage. The newsletter provides opportunities for networking, connecting with others who are equally dedicated to preserving our culture and ensuring our voices are heard. Through IAOVC events, volunteer opportunities, and collaborative projects, you can forge lifelong friendships, build professional networks, and make valuable connections within the Italian American community. If you are ready to make a meaningful impact and join a community that values and uplifts Italian American voices, the Alfano Digest is the perfect platform for you. By signing up, you empower yourself to advocate for our community's interests, celebrate our rich heritage, and contribute to the ongoing narrative of Italian American contributions in the United States. Together, let us unite our voices through the Italian American One Voice Coalition and make a lasting difference for generations to come. Sign up for the Alfano Digest today and become an integral part of this inspiring movement. AuthorAndre' DiMino, 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! |