I am writing to explain the significance of Columbus Day for the Italian American community and to highlight the history and meaning behind this national holiday.
Columbus Day is not only a celebration of exploration but also a day that honors the journey, resilience and achievements of Italian immigrants in the United States.
The origins of Columbus Day as a federal holiday have a deeply meaningful connection to the Italian American experience. In 1892, a tragic event occurred in New Orleans: Eleven Italian immigrants were lynched after having been acquitted of murder charges. This horrifying act reflected the discrimination, prejudice and violence faced by Italian newcomers as they sought to build lives in America.
In response to this injustice, President Benjamin Harrison instituted Columbus Day in 1892, coinciding with the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s voyage to the Americas.
President Harrison sought to honor the contributions and commitment of Italian Americans by recognizing this day as a moment of pride and reflection for the community. Columbus, an Italian explorer, became a symbol not only of discovery but also of the enduring spirit of Italian immigrants who overcame adversity and helped shape the nation.
For generations, the Italian American community has embraced Columbus Day as an opportunity to celebrate their heritage, acknowledge the sacrifices of their ancestors, and affirm their integral role in the fabric of American society. It is a day to come together, share cultural traditions, and remind ourselves of the values — hard work, family, our faith and perseverance — that Italian Americans have brought to the United States.
Columbus Day stands as a testament to the journey of Italian immigrants from hardship and discrimination to acceptance and recognition. It is a day that honors their contributions to every field — business, the arts, public service and more — and celebrates their unwavering commitment to their new country.
As we observe Columbus Day each year, let us remember its origins, reflect on its meaning and continue to celebrate the rich legacy of Italian Americans in the United States.
Raimundo D’Angelo
President
Italian American Association of the Hamptons
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