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BLOG - Conversation with Professor DiNovo
It's Amazing ! By Prof/Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
April/May 2008 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
It is amazing to realize that about 80 million people of Italian origin live outside Europe, primarily in the Americas. A very large number of people of Italian descent are found in Brazil (25 million); Argentina (18 million); and
it is estimated that between 16-26 million are living in the United States.
A large number of people of Italian heritage live in Cyprus, Egypt, Ethiopia, Greece, Israel, Malta, Morocco, Spain, Turkey, and South Africa. Also waves of Italians went to Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Luxembourg and the UK. Of course, there are other countries that come to mind, Canada and Australia. There is a long history of Italians working and living outside the Italian peninsula.
Another amazing thing that I discovered in my research was the number of noted individuals of Italian heritage living in these countries. Gary Valenciano, musician, gospel singer and actor; Maria Assunta DeRossi, and Nancy Castiglione are actresses; Robert Zabala, senator and Carla Humphrie, actress are just a few of the outstanding Italian Filipinos.
In the 1900's there were 30,000 Italian Mexicans living in the original 8 Italian comunities. There are many more today and many live in Mexico City. The following are a few Italian Mexicans of note: Jared Borgetti, football; Caesar Cardini, the inventor of Caesar Salad; Betty Zanolli Fabila, pianist; Umberto Zanoli, composer and writer; and Manuel Neri, artist. Yes, the following are outstanding Italian Peruvians: Ricardo Cassinelli, the mayor of Lima (1990-1995); Louis Giampietri became the vice-president in 2006; Guido Lombardi represents Lima in their congress and there are several others.
There are about 1.3 million Canadians of Italian descent, 4.33% of the total population. They are the 6th largest ethnic group in the nation. There are
so many Italian Canadians in the arts, government, and business and in the professions that the number is too large to list by name.
Now let us look at Chile, the following Italian Chileans have made their mark:
Arturo Fortunato Alessandri Palma has served twice as president of the nation;
Edwardo Gotti, singer and songwriter; Beatriz Martinello, chess player and teacher; Lenor Varela, actress; and Cecila Balacco Fonk, former Miss Universe.
I also found a few Italian Japanese of note. There were 3,337 people of Italian heritage living in Romania in 2002. The founder of public transportation in Ireland was Charles Bianconi who died in 1875; there is a book on the market about the Italian Irish. Italian Britons in 2001 were 102,002, there were 38,694 residing in London. The list of Italian Scots was so large it would take another article; the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Glasgow is just a start.
Brazil and Argentina both with such large populations of people of Italian descent had an amazing list of outstanding citizens of Italian heritage from presidents in almost every f ield of endeavor. Leaving one's country is never easy, but Italians have been very successful wherever they went and were always loyal citizens. Their contributions were amazing!
© 2008 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Accepting Responsibility for Saying:
"I Am An Italian-American" By Prof/Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
October/November 2007 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
If someone says, "I am an Italian American," it strikes me that he/she is accepting some responsibility for future actions. Otherwise, just say, "I am an Italian American." Responsibility comes when you add Italian to American. This is truer in the United States and the Diaspora because of the precarious positions in which we find ourselves and assimilative and dissipative forces, which corrode our Italian-ness every waking moment. No one or nothing is immune - values, ethos, attitudes, cuisine, culture, language, dress, history (at least awareness of it), religion, traditions and customs - all are susceptible.
The main fortifications of the onslaught are parents and the extended family. Committed Italian American parents are able to maintain and develop ties to our Italian "roots." In a "mixed marriage," there are four choices for children. They are: (1) Italian, (2) the other, (3) American (whatever this may mean,) and (4) or choose all three.
Since we are human beings susceptible to environmental influences, it stands to reason that, if we are interested in perpetuating our Italian heritage in the United States, we must create conditions conducive to do so. Marrying those not committed to keeping alive our Italian heritage does render survival and growth more difficult. I have known many people who are not committed to our Italian heritage and culture than those who are Italian Americans.
One of the things we need to do for our children is to provide opportunities for them to learn about their Italian legacy. We must keep alive our Italian traditions and customs in our homes. Are you a member of an Italian American group and volunteer? How much have you donated to keep alive our Italian heritage? Your answers to these questions, in my mind, will indicate how important preserving your Italian heritage is to you! Each of us must take responsibility for keeping alive our Italian heritage and culture. THIS MEANS YOU !!
© 2007 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Funny, You Don't Look Italian by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo - Contributing Writer
August-September 2007 IssueAmerican Italian Heritage Digest
If you know the history of Italy you know the answer, there is no such thing as an Italian race. Some people think that all Italians have a tan color complexion as well as dark eyes and hair, but that is not true. Italy contains people mainly descended from the prehistoric waves of migration from the north during the last Ice Age. This group of stoneage Europeans became the indigenous people such as the Etruscans and the Latins. Many Greeks settled in Sicily and the southern part of the peninsula. During the Roman period many slaves from all the world came to Europe invaded Italy and at least two waves of Germanic people, Lombards and Ostrogoths came during the early medieval period. The Arabs, Celts, French, Spanish came next.
The Albanians, Slavic people, and Croations also have settled. You also will find other ethnic groups in the larger cities.
As a result of the thousands of years of migration, you will see Italians with all hair and eye colors. Some Italians, tall with fair skin, blond hair, blue/green are more frequently found in north and central Italy but you also come across a sizeable pockets as well. In Sicily and southern parts of the peninsula, you will see more brown and black hair, brown eyes with darker complexions. In Sicily you see many blonds and red heads, and people with light complexions. Most genetic studies so far indicate that Italians are most closely related to their immediate Europeans. People that came from Asia minor and north Africa have added their gene signatures.
In recent times many different ethnic groups have come to Italy to work. A former student of mine was of Ethiopian heritage, who spoke Italian and was an Italian citizen. Today there are many Italian citizens of different races. The Italian people are an ethnic people primarily associated with Italy and the Italian language. Italy is getting more like the United States, its citizens' "roots" are from many countries. The truth is, Italians cannot be stereotyped. In time we may be able to learn where those Italians that have red h air originally came from. The sense of unity of the Italian people comes from culture and traditions, rather than from physical characteristics. Most people think that Italians in general are good looking, especially the woman, and that attribute is due to genes!
© 2007 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Growing Up Italian American by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
June/July 2007 IssueAmerican Italian Heritage Digest
You probably read that great article "Growing Up Italian!" This article is different, because I grew up Italian American. My parents were born in the United States and only spoke Italian in our home when they didn't want us to know what they were talking about. I learned some Italian from my grandparents who were born in Italy but it was the Sicilian dialect. My paternal grandmother talked to me mostly in the dialect with some English and it was up to me to know what she was talking about. If you don't use a language you lose it. My wife only spoke Italian until she went to school. Today, she doesn't speak Italian.
My Italian-born grandparents were great role models and they are one of the main reasons why I appreciate and love my Italian heritage. My grandparent's home was an Italian home; mine was an Italian American home. Seldom did my grandmothers prepare other than Italian dishes; my grandfather Sgarlata had to even have pasta on Sundays. My mother prepared mostly Italian food but we did have what we call American food about three times a week.
When I went to Junior High School they had a cafeteria and served food that was not served at my home. I would come home and tell my mother the strange dish I had, like SOS on toast, or peas in white gravy or some strange casserole. We ate real bread, not that American bread that tasted like cotton. My grandmother DiNovo made her own delicious Italian bread, the best and I was spoiled for life! My grandmother often would make a small round loaf just for me. She would take the bread hot from the oven and would cut it in half, and put olive oil, cheese, and some oregano on it. Better than any steak! We bought our Italian bread unless we got a loaf from my grandmother DiNovo. Slowly, American bread entered our home, mostly for toast.
My grandfathers were very strict with their children. I thought my parents were strict but when they told stories how bad things were form them, I was supposed to think it was the truth. I had more freedom than they had at my age but there still were rules! The father of the girl I wanted to take to my high school prom was born in Italy and she had to be home by 10 pm. The party was just starting, so I asked an Irish American girl because her parents would let her stay out to midnight...wow!
My grandparents on my father's side had nine children and we had to be at their home for every major holiday. From my paternal grandparent's home we went to my mother's side of the family. Most of my father's relatives lived within a block of our home and if we got grief at home we always could find refuge with a relative down the block. Almost every Sunday we drove to see my mother's parents and her sisters in a near-by city.
We were taught respect at an early age; whenever we visited our grandparents we first went and kissed them. We always addressed everyone by their proper titles. We ate what was put before us and always said thank you. In my grandmother's home you ate what was served. In my Italian American home, my mother would sometimes make an exception. She sometimes would make two entrees when she knew we didn't like what was served. She was told she was spoiling us!
We had to walk many blocks to church or school but we went no matter what the weather. We worked at an early age but not as hard as our parents did. It didn't kill us, and we learned to appreciate what we had. I think we had the best the America and Italy had to offer. Happily we grew up Italian Americans!
© 2007 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Buona Pasqua by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
April/May 2007 IssueAmerican Italian Heritage Digest
Pasqua is the holiest and greatest of all Christian feasts. If Christ had not risen, then our faith would be in vain. Christ did rise from the dead and through him all shall be made alive.
If the Spirit of him who raised from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies through his spirit which dwells in you." Romans (R: 11)
Yes, that is the reason for celebrating Pasqua and the foundation of all our Italian Easter traditions. The Easter liturgy is very joyful, spectacular, and beautiful. The churches throughout Italy are so beautifully decorated for Easter.
Easter breakfast is often an Easter omlet (frogga), made with herbs or vegetables. Also, in some parts of Italy, the Ricotta Omlet is traditional.
The Easter Dinner is the most festive of the whole year. A traditional Pasqua menu might include: Agnelino (baby lamb) or suckling kid with manicotti, sauteed spinach, mashed artichokes, pickled vegetables, mixed salad, and panzerotti alla teramona, etc.
There are many different traditional Pasqua desserts such as Pizza Rustica Di Pasqua (Easter Pie), Colomba Pasquale (Colomba Pasquale (Easter Dove), Cicerchiata Caddurra Di Pasca, Cream Pasticcero Colombo, Cassatelli (Cream tartlets,Puppo Co Ova (from Sicily), Rice Pie, Findoni, Spumoni, Cannoli, Easter bread dolls, Macedonia di Frutta, chestnuts,, etc. Easter Day is spent with family and just talking. There is wine, such as Asti Spumante, Prosecco di Conegiliano, and Lambrusco, served during and after the meal. To help the digestion, coffee Expresso with Anisette may be served.
Children in Italy receive very decorative chocolate eggs and rabbits, et. The beautiful Pasqua Chocolate Eggs have a small gift, toy, or trinket inside which the children quickly seek to find! It is traditional to send greeting cards depicting Spring scenes, doves, etc. to family and friends, wishing them a Buona Pasqua.
Some people visit the cemetery on Easter Sunday to remember loved ones who have died with prayers and flowers. It is a good time to remember the dead and the resurrection. While children are thrilled with their chocolate eggs and bunnies, senior citizens appreciate the "mature message." They consider the message of the Resurrection because they are more concerned about life after death. Shouldn't we all !!
In essence, Pasqua is a time of family and traditions. Not a superficial celebration spent merely in greeting and feasting, but it is a time of reassurance. Easter symbolizes hope and all of us need such spirit in these times. It is time to strengthen family ties. By keeping Italian Pasqua traditions alive, we are able to bring stability and serenity to our lives.
Pasqua serves to remind us of what is really important in life.
The mood of our most Holy Week traditions fills the soul and heart of Italians with unspeakable joy. These very ancient customs of our ancestors are truly treasures.
Within the soul of the Italian, Easter celebrations arose, but arose not only stirring and pleasant memories, but also unites his or her thoughts, endeavors,
and intentions with family members who have gone to be with the Lord.
Italians in the homeland as well as in the diaspora who have settled in different countries throughout the world, share in the beautiful and ancient Italian Easter traditions gives to us by our Ancestors.
Our Easter celebrations should renew in us the sense of belonging to our Italian roots and strengthen our awareness of our national identity in the Italian community no matter where we live. We thank God that we live in America with all our freedoms and good life. Yet we should realize that we are of Italian descent and always treasure our own customs ands traditions that are thousands of years old.
We should practice our customs, cultivate them and pass them on to future generations. In this way we strengthen our ties with our ancestral origin.
When we practice and keep our Italian Holy Week traditions, it will be a rich and profound experience which will help us remember our origins and those who came before us. Buona Pasqua!
© 2007 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
What Most Italian American Leaders Want! by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
April/May 2007 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
The Italian American community is in trouble. You just have to look around. Where are the young people in our organization?
Another serious problem is getting young people to run for office. One important reason is that officers find it difficult to fulfill everyone's expectations of them. What is interesting to notes that most members believe it's a "one-way street," that is, members of an organization only have the right to make demands of the president, but members aren't required to relate to the president's dreams, hopes and goals. Nevertheless, if there are those among you who wish to share some of my most personal thoughts concerning expectations, here they are: what a president of a Italian American organization wants, are members who are proud of their heritage and are willing to make sacrifices to keep it alive. Commitment is a necessity to make events successful. Being Italian is a way of living and a way of thinking for themselves and hope for their children.
A president also wants an organization worthy of its name. An organization that faces up to the issues of our times and is related to all that has gone on before. Our organizations must be a place of love and devotion; a place in which friendships have deepened, in which joy and strength and solace and direction can be obtained. Does this sound like your lodge, club, association, etc.? Presidents want people who have open minds and hearts, working for the goals of the organization., Members don't have to agree all the time but know how disagree in love and to give and take criticism with kindness. Many members will not attend meetings because of past experiences; a lot of fighting took place. Presidents need many things to be happy, they need the support of members, peace and to be needed.
Presidents really want members who will understand that they are neither superman, nor the devil, but a person who tries hard to do a good job. Presidents can't do anything for members, but can do many great things with
them.
It has been my experience that many good presidents are burned out. I have seen many good presidents who have been un-Christian towards Italian American leaders. Who needs that? I hope every Italian American leader will be able to say that their members are kind and good and love them. If that happens then we will have others who will be willing to carry the burden of leadership in our Italian American organization.
© 2007 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Celebrating St. Joseph's Day by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
February/March 2007 IssueAmerican Italian Heritage Digest
St. Joseph is very special. God thought he was, of all the men in the world, at the time he chose him to be the foster father of his son and the husband of the Virgin Mary. Wherever Italians have settled, they have made St. Joseph's Day, March 19, a day of celebration.
My grandmother had a very large picture of the Holy Family. Joseph looked more like a father than a spouse. Many theologians today think that Saint Joseph was only a few years older than Mary. It stands to reason that Mary's parents would only choose someone who would take care of her; someone pious, virile, who was to be the husband of their daughter. To protect Mary's virginity, especially among the uneducated, Joseph was depicted as an old man. My favorite image of Saint Joseph is a picture of a very young Joseph lifting the Christ Child high, playing with him as dads do; and they both have beautiful smiles.
In the Middle Ages, according to tradition, there was a severe drought that destroyed most vegetation and left many people in western Sicily dying of starvation. People began to pray to St. Joseph asking him to ask the Lord for rain. They promised if the rains came that they would honor St. Joseph for his intercession and perpetually honor him on March 19.
At the stroke of midnight, the Lord sent the rain; it was on this day the prayers were heard. The people had water, the vegetation turned green, and there were fish for the fishermen. The St. Joseph altars are based on this traditional legend, which has been handed down from one generation to the next.
As we reflect on the custom of the Saint Joseph's altar, it was the rich who first held them. When we realize how elaborate they were, it is easy to see that poor people would be unable to have one.
The saints cannot themselves give us anything - God alone can do that. But since the saints have loved and served God while on earth, we believe that He honors them now - by granting requests made through them. God is the only one who answers our prayers; actually a prayer can end only with God, and to believe different would be idolatry.
We ask the saints to pray with us, through Christ, to the Father. We honor Saint Joseph, the patron saint of the Church, an outstanding member of our Christian family. He is a Christian hero, and we ask him to intercede for us because we know he is deeply loved by Jesus. Joseph gave Jesus His name, taught Him the trade of a carpenter, and was the head of the family.
He served Jesus and Mary for the love of God. Saint Joseph is honored all around the world. I know of no people who love and honor Saint Joseph as much as the Italians. Wherever they went, they brought their Saint Joseph traditions with them.
There are many St. Joseph's altars in New Orleans, Hammond, Amite, Independence, and many other Italian-American communities in Louisiana. One can still see a beautiful ceremony that begins at 12 noon. The pageant begins with three persons representing the Holy Family parading around the exterior of the house, where there will be a St. Joseph's altar.
There is an old ritual that takes place - prayers for the blessing of the food and then the feast. The raw fava beans are always on the table and reminds people of the legendary famine when it was one of the few foods available. The bean serves as a reminder of the famine and now the bounty to be enjoyed. Saint Joseph's altars are also very big in many California and New York Italian-American communities.
Zepoles originated in Calabria; they have become rich and elaborated and are served to families and friends in honor of Saint Joseph. Across the nation, Italian pastry shops sell this once-a-year specialty. The Feast Day is celebrated at Don's 21 Restaurant in Newark, N.J. In Syracuse, N.Y., a restaurant has a pig roast with all the frills to celebrate the Feast Day.
In Providence R.I., there is a week-long celebration of the Festa di San Giuseppe. The feast is celebrated the last week of April when the weather is good, and an outdoor procession is held.
For nine years my wife and I have held a very special St. Joseph dinner in our home. Across the nation clubs, lodges, etc., have brought back the Festa di San Giuseppe. The celebrations not only honors a great saint, but is a fund raiser, often the money going to feed the hungry.
Saint Joseph's Day is a wonderful opportunity to keep alive a beautiful tradition. Even if you have to modify your celebration to fir your situation, it still can be a special day.
All over the United States, Saint Joseph's Day celebrations are taking place once again and bring us all closer together as a people.
Buon Festa di San Giuseppe!!
© 2007 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Are Our Italian Christmas Traditions Outdated ? by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
December 2006/January 2007 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
I have written so many articles about our Italian Christmas traditions, that you may ask what more could I write about? Almost twenty-four years ago I wrote my first article. It seems to me there is such an emptiness in people's lives today. Often the Christmas season is a time of depression, loneliness and materialism. In my opinion, no wonder there is too little real joy during the Christmas season.
When I was growing up, all the members of my extended family were very close by. When one close member is not home for Christmas, there is a void in the heart. Traveling long distances for the holidays causes great stress and is often very exhausting!
My parents and grandparents would not buy anything unless they could pay for it. My father told me he received an orange for Christmas. My generation had nice gifts for Christmas but my parents would not go into debt. Today I see so many people buying more gifts than they can afford and have taken gift-giving to the extreme. Have you noticed how spoiled many children are today? What are we teaching them?
Growing up, we spent Christmas at my grandparents, which was full of Italian traditions. Today Christmas is a winter holiday devoid of traditions. Many women have so much to do these days they are too tired to bake. I have seen with my own eyes finger foods served Christmas Eve. Eating in a restaurant on Christmas Day is no longer considered unusual. Do you wonder why the Christmas foods of yesterday are becoming rare? "Grandma and Granpa are gone," "I don't have the time," or "I don't know how to make it" are the reasons often heard.
I am convinced that in our fast changing world we need continuity and stability, and I know we are able to find them within our traditions. Our Italian traditions are not just the realization that Christmas is the birth of Christ, it's a celebration as a religious holiday. So much in our society pushes out the real meaning of Christmas. Our ancestors had it in the right order: religious celebration with family and traditions.
Growing up I felt our heritage demanded too many obligations. I now realize the values of sacrifice, obligation and respect adds so much to life. Each generation learns from the past and the later receives the benefits. Recently I wrote to someone who lost her mother. I hoped her children would do for her what she did for her mother.
The Holy Season of Christmas should be a time of great joy. It was for our immigrant grandparents because they knew how to truly celebrate and appreciate its importance, and I long for those wonderful memories. Are we making memories that will last for this generation? Pass on our Italian Christmas traditions, as they are many and so enriching. I wish you and your family a blessed Buon Natale of traditions!
© 2006 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
A Case for Studying Italian by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
October/November 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
Too often Italian Americans urge their young to study Spanish, the language of the future. Here are the facts: Studying Italian may offer a great opportunity to move up the corporate ladder and an opportunity to live in beautiful Italia. Yes, the facts show that the Italian language has a bright future in international economics.
It is the language spoken by our ancestors. It is one of the most beautiful languages in the world! Today about 100 million people in the world speak Italian and connects people around the world.
Recently an article in PRIMO Magazine indicated that Italian was the language of the future. It comes down to international economics. Italy and the United States are major trading partners. After the European Union the United States is Italy's biggest market. Italy's economy is larger than China and all the Spanish speaking countries in South and Central America, plus the Carribbean combined.
Many Italian goods are growing in demand in the United States. There are over 800 Italian companies in the United States, and there is a demand for people proficient in Italian. It is a fact that careers in certain sections of American economy, learning Italian is a necessity. Knowing Italian may be an advantage in the ranks of these countries. More Italian companies are planning a presence in this country. Speaking Italian will enhance opportunities with American companies that are selling products and services from Italy. About 1,500 United States companies are employing 300,000 or more workers in Italy. There is a demand for those who know American ways of doing business, products and speak Italian.
The next time a young person is taking a foreign language, encourage them to STUDY ITALIAN! Those who love things Italian would appreciate Italy much more by learning Italian. The Italian language helps us to keep alive our Italian heritage and culture in the United States. The whole world sings in Italian and appreciate things Italian.
© 2006 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Something Profoundly Italian in the Donkey by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
August/September 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
Donkeys used to be everywhere in Italy. They are symbols of what Italy once was, improverished. Donkeys once numbered in the thousands. You still will find two feet tall donkeys in Sardinia and in other places other breeds of donkeys.
They were so important to peasants in Italy's past, they plowed the land, pulled carts, etc. Medieval peasants often requested that when they died their deceased donkeys should be buried with them. The Arabs have the camel, we have the donkey as an important part of our culture.
I think you will find Italians in general, have many of the characteristics you find in donkeys. Donkeys are patient, hard-working and intelligent. The donkey should remind many of us of our peasant "roots." Many modern Italians are very proud that Italy is the 6th largest industrial nation in the world. They don't want to be reminded of its past when Italy was a rural land of simple farmers. Donkeys remind them of the past they want to forget!
Modern Italians should hold onto their rich past. The donkey is smarter than a pig or a dog, very human and friendly. It is a great symbol for a people whose history was full of difficulties. The donkey is the same as ever and in many ways that apply to modern Italy.
There are many Italians today trying to save the dwindling donkey population. There is an E.U. annual subsidy and Italian regional governments are giving money solely for donkeys native to their area.
"Italy isn't Italy without donkeys," said Princess Nicoletta Caracciolo who raises and loves donkeys. I have been told that donkeys seek out human contact, so much like Italians. If you're looking for a symbol that represents Italy for your home buy a donkey figurine, painting, etc.
It should remind us of an animal that sure was a blessing to our ancestors. It should also remind us of many things in our past that are endangered!
© 2006 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Will Our Italian Heritage Become extinct By the End of This Century? by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo June/July 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
I have devoted a great deal of my life working to preserve our Italian heritage in the United States. Many of you may have spent time and money to do the same, but in doing so, have we wasted our time, money, and energy?
The odds are against us because we are not doing the things we should. How does an ethnic group insure its survival? The best example is the Jewish community because they are doing things that give the best opportunities to survive. Many Jewish people are not religious; they are secular but have set up institutions and contribute money to organizations that keep alive the Jewish heritage.
Yes, Italy today is not the same country your grandparents left and it is true that many Italian-Americans are now highly acculturated and assimilated members of American society. We also agree that the language has been lost and many things related to our Italian heritage. If there was the will, Italian-Americans could learn about Italy and her heritage. If we are able to get across to Italian-Americans that our Italian heritage is a treasure, we may have more success. We need to point out that Italian personal and family values and our way of interacting with relatives and friends is very enriching. By raising the consciousness to our intellectual heritage they will come to value what Italy has contributed to the world!
I have always been amazed the effect Italy has had on the Italian American tourist. It is a key to culture and identity, especially when contact is made with family and place. Italy is playing a formidable role in the world - economy, politics, science and arts in the present day.
I agree that our future depends upon social cohesion. We need to obtain more Italian-Americans, especially young people to join Italian-American organizations. As members there will be interaction with other individuals with shared values and personal identity. We must welcome the spouse who is not of Italian descent and encourage them to share both heritages with their children. Our Italian-American organizations must provide educational material for children of mixed antecedents. There must be programs and events for various socio-economic class positions.
Complete assimiliation and the extinction of our Italian ethnicity have not yet taken place. We are in the "twilight of ethnicity," and that is why it is so important to act today. We have some of t he persistence of ethnicity in the United States. We notice a lingering attachment to Italy by third and fourth generation Italian-Americans. Why? One good reason is their authentic and a deeper understanding of things Italian, past and present.
We must raise the consciousness of Italian-Americans in light of their being more educated. The affairs of a very modern Italy have appeal because it is contributing so much to modern life. Italian radio and television are now available in the United States. There are so many opportunities to keep in touch with Italy and our families there.
© 2006 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Palm Sunday - Italian Style by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo April/May 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
I have many fond memories of Palm Sunday. I was a choir boy and the Palm Sunday procession was very special and I was a part of it. We were given palms and we ran home to have my grandfather make crosses etc. My grandfather made more complex designs, such as the basket weave and the rose.
Then we would wear them in the buttonholes of our suits. In Italy the palm designs are even more complex, a work of art. You see them in vases on the altar, in processions and in the home. If you want to make these designs, there is an easy to follow step-by-step tutorial on the internet at:
Italiansrus Palm Weaving Tutorial
Palm Sunday is still an important religious celebration that takes place in church but it is nothing like it used to be in my family, growing up. A special dinner and visiting my grandparents, a wonderful day that I still recall with happy memories.
© 2006 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Holy Week Traditions - With an Italian Accent by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo April/May 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
Christ is risen! For most people the greatest fear is death. Jesus knew that we fear death; He was human too. Over and over again He repeated this assurance: "I am the Resurrection of Life; he who believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live." His assurance means nothing unless we believe it and believe in Him.
The Christian has a new approach to death; we take Jesus at His word, and we have the greatest of all futures before us. Easter means we replace fear with trusting love. As I reflect on the attitudes and actions of most of the Italian immigrants I have known they have been able to "internalize" this promise.
Each Holy Week they entered into the spirit of this holy season. Most Italian immigrants didn't receive much formal secular or religious education, but they often had deep faith. There are so many beautiful Italian Holy Week traditions I recall with fond memories. Pots of special grains that started to grow such as wheat, horse beans, and chick peas, we replaced on the altar during Holy Week in some places. On Palm Sunday, the men made crosses from palm and weaved various designs from the palm banches brought from church. We wore these as a very special symbol of the feast. A special dinner is often served.
On Holy Thursday, the churches in Italy are decorated in accordance with popular tradition. The figurative and dramatic processions take place all over Italy. One of the most dramatic takes place in Caltanisseta, where trade members carry 15 grandiose statuary groups of the Passion of the Christ.
Penitential guilds, as well as others, hold a procession on Good Friday, which evokes the way to Calvary. In other places, the faithful represent the personages of the Passion. The custom of self-flagellation with canes or whips has not entirely disappeared. A very strict day of fast is kept. The day is somber and respectfully kept.
The blessing of water and fire takes place on Holy Saturday and is taken from house to house. Vatican II has modified certain Holy Saturday traditional manifestations. Throughout Italy, people will attend the very beautiful Holy Saturday evening liturgy now said in Italian.
During Holy Week, Easter baking begins. Cristo E Risorto! On Easter there is a strong belief that new tasks must be undertaken, clothes renewed, and gifts exchanged. Religious feasts have the greatest importance in the life of the Italian people, and Easter heads the list.
In words and action, the essence of Easter is evident. Suckling kid or roast lamb, a most ancient custom, is served on Easter Sunday. In many regions, eggs are colored red to symbolize the blood of Christ, and sweet breads are made in the form of a dove, lamb, etc. While each of the regions have their own traditional Easter foods, some of the more common ones are: Pasta, roasted artichokes, spinach and other greens, salad or antipasto, roasted chestnuts, fruit in season, Asti Spumante, etc.
Traditional Italian sweets are: Italian cheese pie (Fradoni), Pizza Rustica, Cuddura Di Pasca, various Easter breads and pies, Cassatelli , Easter bread dolls, Pastiera Napoletana, Cannoli, Pastiera di Pasqua, Pasta Frolla, Pitte Con Niepita, and Easter bread wreaths, just to mention a few. The traditional Easter breakfast, an omelet (Frogga), is often prepared with different green herbs or vegetables giving you a red, white and green breakfast.
During the Easter season, peasants brought baskets full of cheese, eggs, etc., to the proprietors, and they reciprocated. Cards with spring scenes, flowers, doves, etc. on them are sent to relatives and friends. Chocolate eggs adorned with ribbons and wrapped in brillantly colored paper are given to children. On Easter, sacred dramas depicting the resurrection of Christ are held throughout Italy - especially in Sicily. In each part of Italy, there are are unique traditions and foods served during the Easter season. On Easter Monday (little Easter), processions and manifestations of religious devotion and the traditional picnic take place.
Our family, typical of most Italian-American families, celebrates Easter with the traditions brought by my grandparents from Italy. It is a religious holiday, a family celebration that ends with an elaborate dinner and visiting. Pupu cu l'ova the traditional Easter sweet is made, and we all feel a sense of keeping faith with our roots when we make and eat them.
At our church we have the blessing of Easter foods, and I always bring Pupu cu l'ova and gfive one to the priest. Last year, another Italian-American family brought an Italian-Easter bread. In our non-Italian parish, there was great interest and much praise for the Italian sweets we brought to be blessed. There seems to be great admiration and respect for our Italian traditions by many non-Italians I know.
Across the United States, I have been hearing from Italian-Americans who strongly agree with my many appeals to keep our Italian traditions alive. I see a renaissance taking place. Many of us, have come to sense a real joy in keeping our traditions alive, and my sincere hope is that more of our people will feel the same. Buona Pasqua!
© 2006 Prof.Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
LA FESTA DELLA MAMMA - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY ! Mama Mia
by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo April/May 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
One of the greatest titles ever given is the title of Mother! I think Italian and Italian American mothers had additional duties based on our culture. How could one person be asked to do so much?
The stress is staggering. It requires a great deal of sacrifice. Deep love made their role possible. The bond is so strong they are never forgotten. Not only on Mother's Day but everyday is celebrated in remembrance of her, who loved us to the core. Mother dear tante grazie!
© 2006 Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Celebrate La Festa di San Giuseppe by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
February-March 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
I look forward to celebrating St. Joseph Day every year. All over the United States Italian American organizations have made this celebration very popular. The devotion to St. Joseph is greatly influenced by his image as a humble and faithful servant. Christians everywhere recognize him as a very special model.
Italians have made his feast day an unofficial holiday, not only in Sicily but all over Italy. It once was a national holiday and the Italians are considering it again. The vote is down to either the feast of St. Joseph or St. Anthony as a national holiday.
St. Joseph as the foster father of Jesus is honored in so many ways. Many churches, shrines, pilgrimage centers, order of priests, nuns, cities and individuals bear his name. St. Joseph never said one word in the Scriptures but he did have a very unique honor, he was chosen to be the foster father, care giver, and teacher of the Son of God.
In turn he is honored around the world. Not only is St. Joseph the patron of the Universal Church but also Austria, Belgium, Bohemia, Canada, China, Mexico, Peru, Russia, Vietnam, dioceses, workers in general, carpenters, contractors, engineers, and artisans.
Italians in different regions have special foods to celebrate the feast. The St. Joseph Table is a Sicilian tradition and foods like "bucatini con sarde," "tubetti con ceci" are two special pasta dishes. S'fingi (Sicilian) - with ricotta) and "zeppole" (Calabrian - with custard) are two of many St. Joseph pastries served on the holiday.
March 19 is the feast of St. Joseph but many organizations celebrate on the Sunday before or after the 19th. March is often cold and bleak, the feast adds color, joy and tradition to the time of year that we need a celebration.
This year be sure to celebrate the feast with children and tell them about the feast and why St. Joseph is so special. The St. Joseph Table came about because of prayers, the rains came after a very serious drought that could have brought death. No matter your religion or etnic background, it is a celebration that everyone will enjoy. You are always welcome to our Association's celebration!
© 2006 Prof.Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
Does it Really Matter? By Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo February-March 2006 Issue American Italian Heritage Digest
Why is it important to preserve our Italian heritage? Does it really matter? Most Italian Americans will say it isn't important because they are already assimilated. We know there are many reasons why assimilation has taken place. You don't treasure and don't know.
The truth is that most Italian Americans know very little about their Italian heritage. Our heritage and culture is much more than food. Our Italian legacy has given us so much and that is all we need to do is to claim it. So many people have loved Italy and the Italian people over the centuries. Have you ever wondered why? Over 30 million people visit Italy each year and the reasons tell you why our Italian heritage is a treasure.
We have been given a value system that gives meaning to life. That heritage teaches us what is really important and how to enjoy life! History is behind our Italian surnames and this history sheds light on who we are. We also share a unique experience in the United States and we are richer for it. Our traditions and customs enrich the celebration of life. Those of us who treasure our Italian heritage because of what it has done for us, want to pass it on. All over this nation there are people of like mind. In spite of all that has taken place we lay claim to our Italian heritage and make it a part of our lives.
Each of us is capable of informing the public what our Italian heritage means to us. We should be willing to give some of our treasure to support our efforts to preserve our heritage. You're invited to use your talents in our many different efforts to pass our heritage to the next generation. My hope is our committment is much more than words. Too often it is just words. It really does matter that our Italian heritage is preserved and with your help it will be!
© 2006 - Prof.Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
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| April/May 2008 Issue It is amazing to realize that about 80 million people of Italian origin live outside Europe, primarily in the Americas. A very large number of people of Italian descent are found in Brazil (25 million); Argentina (18 million); and it is estimated that between 16-26 million are living in the United States. A large number of people of Italian heritage live in Cyprus, Egypt, Ethiopia, Greece, Israel, Malta, Morocco, Spain, Turkey, and South Africa. Also waves of Italians went to Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Luxembourg and the UK. Of course, there are other countries that come to mind, Canada and Australia. There is a long history of Italians working and living outside the Italian peninsula. Another amazing thing that I discovered in my research was the number of noted individuals of Italian heritage living in these countries. Gary Valenciano, musician, gospel singer and actor; Maria Assunta DeRossi, and Nancy Castiglione are actresses; Robert Zabala, senator and Carla Humphrie, actress are just a few of the outstanding Italian Filipinos. In the 1900's there were 30,000 Italian Mexicans living in the original 8 Italian comunities. There are many more today and many live in Mexico City. The following are a few Italian Mexicans of note: Jared Borgetti, football; Caesar Cardini, the inventor of Caesar Salad; Betty Zanolli Fabila, pianist; Umberto Zanoli, composer and writer; and Manuel Neri, artist. Yes, the following are outstanding Italian Peruvians: Ricardo Cassinelli, the mayor of Lima (1990-1995); Louis Giampietri became the vice-president in 2006; Guido Lombardi represents Lima in their congress and there are several others. There are about 1.3 million Canadians of Italian descent, 4.33% of the total population. They are the 6th largest ethnic group in the nation. There are so many Italian Canadians in the arts, government, and business and in the professions that the number is too large to list by name. Now let us look at Chile, the following Italian Chileans have made their mark: Arturo Fortunato Alessandri Palma has served twice as president of the nation; Edwardo Gotti, singer and songwriter; Beatriz Martinello, chess player and teacher; Lenor Varela, actress; and Cecila Balacco Fonk, former Miss Universe. I also found a few Italian Japanese of note. There were 3,337 people of Italian heritage living in Romania in 2002. The founder of public transportation in Ireland was Charles Bianconi who died in 1875; there is a book on the market about the Italian Irish. Italian Britons in 2001 were 102,002, there were 38,694 residing in London. The list of Italian Scots was so large it would take another article; the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Glasgow is just a start. Brazil and Argentina both with such large populations of people of Italian descent had an amazing list of outstanding citizens of Italian heritage from presidents in almost every f ield of endeavor. Leaving one's country is never easy, but Italians have been very successful wherever they went and were always loyal citizens. Their contributions were amazing! |
October/November 2007 Issue If someone says, "I am an Italian American," it strikes me that he/she is accepting some responsibility for future actions. Otherwise, just say, "I am an Italian American." Responsibility comes when you add Italian to American. This is truer in the United States and the Diaspora because of the precarious positions in which we find ourselves and assimilative and dissipative forces, which corrode our Italian-ness every waking moment. No one or nothing is immune - values, ethos, attitudes, cuisine, culture, language, dress, history (at least awareness of it), religion, traditions and customs - all are susceptible.
The main fortifications of the onslaught are parents and the extended family. Committed Italian American parents are able to maintain and develop ties to our Italian "roots." In a "mixed marriage," there are four choices for children. They are: (1) Italian, (2) the other, (3) American (whatever this may mean,) and (4) or choose all three. Since we are human beings susceptible to environmental influences, it stands to reason that, if we are interested in perpetuating our Italian heritage in the United States, we must create conditions conducive to do so. Marrying those not committed to keeping alive our Italian heritage does render survival and growth more difficult. I have known many people who are not committed to our Italian heritage and culture than those who are Italian Americans. One of the things we need to do for our children is to provide opportunities for them to learn about their Italian legacy. We must keep alive our Italian traditions and customs in our homes. Are you a member of an Italian American group and volunteer? How much have you donated to keep alive our Italian heritage? Your answers to these questions, in my mind, will indicate how important preserving your Italian heritage is to you! Each of us must take responsibility for keeping alive our Italian heritage and culture. THIS MEANS YOU !! |
August-September 2007 Issue If you know the history of Italy you know the answer, there is no such thing as an Italian race. Some people think that all Italians have a tan color complexion as well as dark eyes and hair, but that is not true. Italy contains people mainly descended from the prehistoric waves of migration from the north during the last Ice Age. This group of stoneage Europeans became the indigenous people such as the Etruscans and the Latins. Many Greeks settled in Sicily and the southern part of the peninsula. During the Roman period many slaves from all the world came to Europe invaded Italy and at least two waves of Germanic people, Lombards and Ostrogoths came during the early medieval period. The Arabs, Celts, French, Spanish came next.
The Albanians, Slavic people, and Croations also have settled. You also will find other ethnic groups in the larger cities.
As a result of the thousands of years of migration, you will see Italians with all hair and eye colors. Some Italians, tall with fair skin, blond hair, blue/green are more frequently found in north and central Italy but you also come across a sizeable pockets as well. In Sicily and southern parts of the peninsula, you will see more brown and black hair, brown eyes with darker complexions. In Sicily you see many blonds and red heads, and people with light complexions. Most genetic studies so far indicate that Italians are most closely related to their immediate Europeans. People that came from Asia minor and north Africa have added their gene signatures. In recent times many different ethnic groups have come to Italy to work. A former student of mine was of Ethiopian heritage, who spoke Italian and was an Italian citizen. Today there are many Italian citizens of different races. The Italian people are an ethnic people primarily associated with Italy and the Italian language. Italy is getting more like the United States, its citizens' "roots" are from many countries. The truth is, Italians cannot be stereotyped. In time we may be able to learn where those Italians that have red h air originally came from. The sense of unity of the Italian people comes from culture and traditions, rather than from physical characteristics. Most people think that Italians in general are good looking, especially the woman, and that attribute is due to genes! |
June/July 2007 Issue You probably read that great article "Growing Up Italian!" This article is different, because I grew up Italian American. My parents were born in the United States and only spoke Italian in our home when they didn't want us to know what they were talking about. I learned some Italian from my grandparents who were born in Italy but it was the Sicilian dialect. My paternal grandmother talked to me mostly in the dialect with some English and it was up to me to know what she was talking about. If you don't use a language you lose it. My wife only spoke Italian until she went to school. Today, she doesn't speak Italian.
My Italian-born grandparents were great role models and they are one of the main reasons why I appreciate and love my Italian heritage. My grandparent's home was an Italian home; mine was an Italian American home. Seldom did my grandmothers prepare other than Italian dishes; my grandfather Sgarlata had to even have pasta on Sundays. My mother prepared mostly Italian food but we did have what we call American food about three times a week. When I went to Junior High School they had a cafeteria and served food that was not served at my home. I would come home and tell my mother the strange dish I had, like SOS on toast, or peas in white gravy or some strange casserole. We ate real bread, not that American bread that tasted like cotton. My grandmother DiNovo made her own delicious Italian bread, the best and I was spoiled for life! My grandmother often would make a small round loaf just for me. She would take the bread hot from the oven and would cut it in half, and put olive oil, cheese, and some oregano on it. Better than any steak! We bought our Italian bread unless we got a loaf from my grandmother DiNovo. Slowly, American bread entered our home, mostly for toast. My grandfathers were very strict with their children. I thought my parents were strict but when they told stories how bad things were form them, I was supposed to think it was the truth. I had more freedom than they had at my age but there still were rules! The father of the girl I wanted to take to my high school prom was born in Italy and she had to be home by 10 pm. The party was just starting, so I asked an Irish American girl because her parents would let her stay out to midnight...wow! My grandparents on my father's side had nine children and we had to be at their home for every major holiday. From my paternal grandparent's home we went to my mother's side of the family. Most of my father's relatives lived within a block of our home and if we got grief at home we always could find refuge with a relative down the block. Almost every Sunday we drove to see my mother's parents and her sisters in a near-by city. We were taught respect at an early age; whenever we visited our grandparents we first went and kissed them. We always addressed everyone by their proper titles. We ate what was put before us and always said thank you. In my grandmother's home you ate what was served. In my Italian American home, my mother would sometimes make an exception. She sometimes would make two entrees when she knew we didn't like what was served. She was told she was spoiling us! We had to walk many blocks to church or school but we went no matter what the weather. We worked at an early age but not as hard as our parents did. It didn't kill us, and we learned to appreciate what we had. I think we had the best the America and Italy had to offer. Happily we grew up Italian Americans! |
April/May 2007 Issue Pasqua is the holiest and greatest of all Christian feasts. If Christ had not risen, then our faith would be in vain. Christ did rise from the dead and through him all shall be made alive.
If the Spirit of him who raised from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies through his spirit which dwells in you." Romans (R: 11) Yes, that is the reason for celebrating Pasqua and the foundation of all our Italian Easter traditions. The Easter liturgy is very joyful, spectacular, and beautiful. The churches throughout Italy are so beautifully decorated for Easter. Easter breakfast is often an Easter omlet (frogga), made with herbs or vegetables. Also, in some parts of Italy, the Ricotta Omlet is traditional. The Easter Dinner is the most festive of the whole year. A traditional Pasqua menu might include: Agnelino (baby lamb) or suckling kid with manicotti, sauteed spinach, mashed artichokes, pickled vegetables, mixed salad, and panzerotti alla teramona, etc. There are many different traditional Pasqua desserts such as Pizza Rustica Di Pasqua (Easter Pie), Colomba Pasquale (Colomba Pasquale (Easter Dove), Cicerchiata Caddurra Di Pasca, Cream Pasticcero Colombo, Cassatelli (Cream tartlets,Puppo Co Ova (from Sicily), Rice Pie, Findoni, Spumoni, Cannoli, Easter bread dolls, Macedonia di Frutta, chestnuts,, etc. Easter Day is spent with family and just talking. There is wine, such as Asti Spumante, Prosecco di Conegiliano, and Lambrusco, served during and after the meal. To help the digestion, coffee Expresso with Anisette may be served. Children in Italy receive very decorative chocolate eggs and rabbits, et. The beautiful Pasqua Chocolate Eggs have a small gift, toy, or trinket inside which the children quickly seek to find! It is traditional to send greeting cards depicting Spring scenes, doves, etc. to family and friends, wishing them a Buona Pasqua. Some people visit the cemetery on Easter Sunday to remember loved ones who have died with prayers and flowers. It is a good time to remember the dead and the resurrection. While children are thrilled with their chocolate eggs and bunnies, senior citizens appreciate the "mature message." They consider the message of the Resurrection because they are more concerned about life after death. Shouldn't we all !! In essence, Pasqua is a time of family and traditions. Not a superficial celebration spent merely in greeting and feasting, but it is a time of reassurance. Easter symbolizes hope and all of us need such spirit in these times. It is time to strengthen family ties. By keeping Italian Pasqua traditions alive, we are able to bring stability and serenity to our lives. Pasqua serves to remind us of what is really important in life. The mood of our most Holy Week traditions fills the soul and heart of Italians with unspeakable joy. These very ancient customs of our ancestors are truly treasures. Within the soul of the Italian, Easter celebrations arose, but arose not only stirring and pleasant memories, but also unites his or her thoughts, endeavors, and intentions with family members who have gone to be with the Lord. Italians in the homeland as well as in the diaspora who have settled in different countries throughout the world, share in the beautiful and ancient Italian Easter traditions gives to us by our Ancestors. Our Easter celebrations should renew in us the sense of belonging to our Italian roots and strengthen our awareness of our national identity in the Italian community no matter where we live. We thank God that we live in America with all our freedoms and good life. Yet we should realize that we are of Italian descent and always treasure our own customs ands traditions that are thousands of years old. We should practice our customs, cultivate them and pass them on to future generations. In this way we strengthen our ties with our ancestral origin. When we practice and keep our Italian Holy Week traditions, it will be a rich and profound experience which will help us remember our origins and those who came before us. Buona Pasqua! |
April/May 2007 Issue The Italian American community is in trouble. You just have to look around. Where are the young people in our organization? Another serious problem is getting young people to run for office. One important reason is that officers find it difficult to fulfill everyone's expectations of them. What is interesting to notes that most members believe it's a "one-way street," that is, members of an organization only have the right to make demands of the president, but members aren't required to relate to the president's dreams, hopes and goals. Nevertheless, if there are those among you who wish to share some of my most personal thoughts concerning expectations, here they are: what a president of a Italian American organization wants, are members who are proud of their heritage and are willing to make sacrifices to keep it alive. Commitment is a necessity to make events successful. Being Italian is a way of living and a way of thinking for themselves and hope for their children. A president also wants an organization worthy of its name. An organization that faces up to the issues of our times and is related to all that has gone on before. Our organizations must be a place of love and devotion; a place in which friendships have deepened, in which joy and strength and solace and direction can be obtained. Does this sound like your lodge, club, association, etc.? Presidents want people who have open minds and hearts, working for the goals of the organization., Members don't have to agree all the time but know how disagree in love and to give and take criticism with kindness. Many members will not attend meetings because of past experiences; a lot of fighting took place. Presidents need many things to be happy, they need the support of members, peace and to be needed. Presidents really want members who will understand that they are neither superman, nor the devil, but a person who tries hard to do a good job. Presidents can't do anything for members, but can do many great things with them. It has been my experience that many good presidents are burned out. I have seen many good presidents who have been un-Christian towards Italian American leaders. Who needs that? I hope every Italian American leader will be able to say that their members are kind and good and love them. If that happens then we will have others who will be willing to carry the burden of leadership in our Italian American organization. |
February/March 2007 Issue St. Joseph is very special. God thought he was, of all the men in the world, at the time he chose him to be the foster father of his son and the husband of the Virgin Mary. Wherever Italians have settled, they have made St. Joseph's Day, March 19, a day of celebration.
My grandmother had a very large picture of the Holy Family. Joseph looked more like a father than a spouse. Many theologians today think that Saint Joseph was only a few years older than Mary. It stands to reason that Mary's parents would only choose someone who would take care of her; someone pious, virile, who was to be the husband of their daughter. To protect Mary's virginity, especially among the uneducated, Joseph was depicted as an old man. My favorite image of Saint Joseph is a picture of a very young Joseph lifting the Christ Child high, playing with him as dads do; and they both have beautiful smiles. In the Middle Ages, according to tradition, there was a severe drought that destroyed most vegetation and left many people in western Sicily dying of starvation. People began to pray to St. Joseph asking him to ask the Lord for rain. They promised if the rains came that they would honor St. Joseph for his intercession and perpetually honor him on March 19. At the stroke of midnight, the Lord sent the rain; it was on this day the prayers were heard. The people had water, the vegetation turned green, and there were fish for the fishermen. The St. Joseph altars are based on this traditional legend, which has been handed down from one generation to the next. As we reflect on the custom of the Saint Joseph's altar, it was the rich who first held them. When we realize how elaborate they were, it is easy to see that poor people would be unable to have one. The saints cannot themselves give us anything - God alone can do that. But since the saints have loved and served God while on earth, we believe that He honors them now - by granting requests made through them. God is the only one who answers our prayers; actually a prayer can end only with God, and to believe different would be idolatry. We ask the saints to pray with us, through Christ, to the Father. We honor Saint Joseph, the patron saint of the Church, an outstanding member of our Christian family. He is a Christian hero, and we ask him to intercede for us because we know he is deeply loved by Jesus. Joseph gave Jesus His name, taught Him the trade of a carpenter, and was the head of the family. He served Jesus and Mary for the love of God. Saint Joseph is honored all around the world. I know of no people who love and honor Saint Joseph as much as the Italians. Wherever they went, they brought their Saint Joseph traditions with them. There are many St. Joseph's altars in New Orleans, Hammond, Amite, Independence, and many other Italian-American communities in Louisiana. One can still see a beautiful ceremony that begins at 12 noon. The pageant begins with three persons representing the Holy Family parading around the exterior of the house, where there will be a St. Joseph's altar. There is an old ritual that takes place - prayers for the blessing of the food and then the feast. The raw fava beans are always on the table and reminds people of the legendary famine when it was one of the few foods available. The bean serves as a reminder of the famine and now the bounty to be enjoyed. Saint Joseph's altars are also very big in many California and New York Italian-American communities. Zepoles originated in Calabria; they have become rich and elaborated and are served to families and friends in honor of Saint Joseph. Across the nation, Italian pastry shops sell this once-a-year specialty. The Feast Day is celebrated at Don's 21 Restaurant in Newark, N.J. In Syracuse, N.Y., a restaurant has a pig roast with all the frills to celebrate the Feast Day. In Providence R.I., there is a week-long celebration of the Festa di San Giuseppe. The feast is celebrated the last week of April when the weather is good, and an outdoor procession is held. For nine years my wife and I have held a very special St. Joseph dinner in our home. Across the nation clubs, lodges, etc., have brought back the Festa di San Giuseppe. The celebrations not only honors a great saint, but is a fund raiser, often the money going to feed the hungry. Saint Joseph's Day is a wonderful opportunity to keep alive a beautiful tradition. Even if you have to modify your celebration to fir your situation, it still can be a special day. All over the United States, Saint Joseph's Day celebrations are taking place once again and bring us all closer together as a people. |
December 2006/January 2007 Issue I have written so many articles about our Italian Christmas traditions, that you may ask what more could I write about? Almost twenty-four years ago I wrote my first article. It seems to me there is such an emptiness in people's lives today. Often the Christmas season is a time of depression, loneliness and materialism. In my opinion, no wonder there is too little real joy during the Christmas season.
When I was growing up, all the members of my extended family were very close by. When one close member is not home for Christmas, there is a void in the heart. Traveling long distances for the holidays causes great stress and is often very exhausting! My parents and grandparents would not buy anything unless they could pay for it. My father told me he received an orange for Christmas. My generation had nice gifts for Christmas but my parents would not go into debt. Today I see so many people buying more gifts than they can afford and have taken gift-giving to the extreme. Have you noticed how spoiled many children are today? What are we teaching them? Growing up, we spent Christmas at my grandparents, which was full of Italian traditions. Today Christmas is a winter holiday devoid of traditions. Many women have so much to do these days they are too tired to bake. I have seen with my own eyes finger foods served Christmas Eve. Eating in a restaurant on Christmas Day is no longer considered unusual. Do you wonder why the Christmas foods of yesterday are becoming rare? "Grandma and Granpa are gone," "I don't have the time," or "I don't know how to make it" are the reasons often heard. I am convinced that in our fast changing world we need continuity and stability, and I know we are able to find them within our traditions. Our Italian traditions are not just the realization that Christmas is the birth of Christ, it's a celebration as a religious holiday. So much in our society pushes out the real meaning of Christmas. Our ancestors had it in the right order: religious celebration with family and traditions. Growing up I felt our heritage demanded too many obligations. I now realize the values of sacrifice, obligation and respect adds so much to life. Each generation learns from the past and the later receives the benefits. Recently I wrote to someone who lost her mother. I hoped her children would do for her what she did for her mother. The Holy Season of Christmas should be a time of great joy. It was for our immigrant grandparents because they knew how to truly celebrate and appreciate its importance, and I long for those wonderful memories. Are we making memories that will last for this generation? Pass on our Italian Christmas traditions, as they are many and so enriching. I wish you and your family a blessed Buon Natale of traditions! |
October/November 2006 Issue Too often Italian Americans urge their young to study Spanish, the language of the future. Here are the facts: Studying Italian may offer a great opportunity to move up the corporate ladder and an opportunity to live in beautiful Italia. Yes, the facts show that the Italian language has a bright future in international economics.
It is the language spoken by our ancestors. It is one of the most beautiful languages in the world! Today about 100 million people in the world speak Italian and connects people around the world. Recently an article in PRIMO Magazine indicated that Italian was the language of the future. It comes down to international economics. Italy and the United States are major trading partners. After the European Union the United States is Italy's biggest market. Italy's economy is larger than China and all the Spanish speaking countries in South and Central America, plus the Carribbean combined. Many Italian goods are growing in demand in the United States. There are over 800 Italian companies in the United States, and there is a demand for people proficient in Italian. It is a fact that careers in certain sections of American economy, learning Italian is a necessity. Knowing Italian may be an advantage in the ranks of these countries. More Italian companies are planning a presence in this country. Speaking Italian will enhance opportunities with American companies that are selling products and services from Italy. About 1,500 United States companies are employing 300,000 or more workers in Italy. There is a demand for those who know American ways of doing business, products and speak Italian. The next time a young person is taking a foreign language, encourage them to STUDY ITALIAN! Those who love things Italian would appreciate Italy much more by learning Italian. The Italian language helps us to keep alive our Italian heritage and culture in the United States. The whole world sings in Italian and appreciate things Italian. |
August/September 2006 Issue Donkeys used to be everywhere in Italy. They are symbols of what Italy once was, improverished. Donkeys once numbered in the thousands. You still will find two feet tall donkeys in Sardinia and in other places other breeds of donkeys.
They were so important to peasants in Italy's past, they plowed the land, pulled carts, etc. Medieval peasants often requested that when they died their deceased donkeys should be buried with them. The Arabs have the camel, we have the donkey as an important part of our culture. I think you will find Italians in general, have many of the characteristics you find in donkeys. Donkeys are patient, hard-working and intelligent. The donkey should remind many of us of our peasant "roots." Many modern Italians are very proud that Italy is the 6th largest industrial nation in the world. They don't want to be reminded of its past when Italy was a rural land of simple farmers. Donkeys remind them of the past they want to forget! Modern Italians should hold onto their rich past. The donkey is smarter than a pig or a dog, very human and friendly. It is a great symbol for a people whose history was full of difficulties. The donkey is the same as ever and in many ways that apply to modern Italy. There are many Italians today trying to save the dwindling donkey population. There is an E.U. annual subsidy and Italian regional governments are giving money solely for donkeys native to their area. "Italy isn't Italy without donkeys," said Princess Nicoletta Caracciolo who raises and loves donkeys. I have been told that donkeys seek out human contact, so much like Italians. If you're looking for a symbol that represents Italy for your home buy a donkey figurine, painting, etc. It should remind us of an animal that sure was a blessing to our ancestors. It should also remind us of many things in our past that are endangered! |
| I have devoted a great deal of my life working to preserve our Italian heritage in the United States. Many of you may have spent time and money to do the same, but in doing so, have we wasted our time, money, and energy?
The odds are against us because we are not doing the things we should. How does an ethnic group insure its survival? The best example is the Jewish community because they are doing things that give the best opportunities to survive. Many Jewish people are not religious; they are secular but have set up institutions and contribute money to organizations that keep alive the Jewish heritage. Yes, Italy today is not the same country your grandparents left and it is true that many Italian-Americans are now highly acculturated and assimilated members of American society. We also agree that the language has been lost and many things related to our Italian heritage. If there was the will, Italian-Americans could learn about Italy and her heritage. If we are able to get across to Italian-Americans that our Italian heritage is a treasure, we may have more success. We need to point out that Italian personal and family values and our way of interacting with relatives and friends is very enriching. By raising the consciousness to our intellectual heritage they will come to value what Italy has contributed to the world! I have always been amazed the effect Italy has had on the Italian American tourist. It is a key to culture and identity, especially when contact is made with family and place. Italy is playing a formidable role in the world - economy, politics, science and arts in the present day. I agree that our future depends upon social cohesion. We need to obtain more Italian-Americans, especially young people to join Italian-American organizations. As members there will be interaction with other individuals with shared values and personal identity. We must welcome the spouse who is not of Italian descent and encourage them to share both heritages with their children. Our Italian-American organizations must provide educational material for children of mixed antecedents. There must be programs and events for various socio-economic class positions. Complete assimiliation and the extinction of our Italian ethnicity have not yet taken place. We are in the "twilight of ethnicity," and that is why it is so important to act today. We have some of t he persistence of ethnicity in the United States. We notice a lingering attachment to Italy by third and fourth generation Italian-Americans. Why? One good reason is their authentic and a deeper understanding of things Italian, past and present. We must raise the consciousness of Italian-Americans in light of their being more educated. The affairs of a very modern Italy have appeal because it is contributing so much to modern life. Italian radio and television are now available in the United States. There are so many opportunities to keep in touch with Italy and our families there. |
| I have many fond memories of Palm Sunday. I was a choir boy and the Palm Sunday procession was very special and I was a part of it. We were given palms and we ran home to have my grandfather make crosses etc. My grandfather made more complex designs, such as the basket weave and the rose.
Then we would wear them in the buttonholes of our suits. In Italy the palm designs are even more complex, a work of art. You see them in vases on the altar, in processions and in the home. If you want to make these designs, there is an easy to follow step-by-step tutorial on the internet at: Palm Sunday is still an important religious celebration that takes place in church but it is nothing like it used to be in my family, growing up. A special dinner and visiting my grandparents, a wonderful day that I still recall with happy memories. |
| Christ is risen! For most people the greatest fear is death. Jesus knew that we fear death; He was human too. Over and over again He repeated this assurance: "I am the Resurrection of Life; he who believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live." His assurance means nothing unless we believe it and believe in Him.
The Christian has a new approach to death; we take Jesus at His word, and we have the greatest of all futures before us. Easter means we replace fear with trusting love. As I reflect on the attitudes and actions of most of the Italian immigrants I have known they have been able to "internalize" this promise. Each Holy Week they entered into the spirit of this holy season. Most Italian immigrants didn't receive much formal secular or religious education, but they often had deep faith. There are so many beautiful Italian Holy Week traditions I recall with fond memories. Pots of special grains that started to grow such as wheat, horse beans, and chick peas, we replaced on the altar during Holy Week in some places. On Palm Sunday, the men made crosses from palm and weaved various designs from the palm banches brought from church. We wore these as a very special symbol of the feast. A special dinner is often served. On Holy Thursday, the churches in Italy are decorated in accordance with popular tradition. The figurative and dramatic processions take place all over Italy. One of the most dramatic takes place in Caltanisseta, where trade members carry 15 grandiose statuary groups of the Passion of the Christ. Penitential guilds, as well as others, hold a procession on Good Friday, which evokes the way to Calvary. In other places, the faithful represent the personages of the Passion. The custom of self-flagellation with canes or whips has not entirely disappeared. A very strict day of fast is kept. The day is somber and respectfully kept. The blessing of water and fire takes place on Holy Saturday and is taken from house to house. Vatican II has modified certain Holy Saturday traditional manifestations. Throughout Italy, people will attend the very beautiful Holy Saturday evening liturgy now said in Italian. During Holy Week, Easter baking begins. Cristo E Risorto! On Easter there is a strong belief that new tasks must be undertaken, clothes renewed, and gifts exchanged. Religious feasts have the greatest importance in the life of the Italian people, and Easter heads the list. In words and action, the essence of Easter is evident. Suckling kid or roast lamb, a most ancient custom, is served on Easter Sunday. In many regions, eggs are colored red to symbolize the blood of Christ, and sweet breads are made in the form of a dove, lamb, etc. While each of the regions have their own traditional Easter foods, some of the more common ones are: Pasta, roasted artichokes, spinach and other greens, salad or antipasto, roasted chestnuts, fruit in season, Asti Spumante, etc. Traditional Italian sweets are: Italian cheese pie (Fradoni), Pizza Rustica, Cuddura Di Pasca, various Easter breads and pies, Cassatelli , Easter bread dolls, Pastiera Napoletana, Cannoli, Pastiera di Pasqua, Pasta Frolla, Pitte Con Niepita, and Easter bread wreaths, just to mention a few. The traditional Easter breakfast, an omelet (Frogga), is often prepared with different green herbs or vegetables giving you a red, white and green breakfast. During the Easter season, peasants brought baskets full of cheese, eggs, etc., to the proprietors, and they reciprocated. Cards with spring scenes, flowers, doves, etc. on them are sent to relatives and friends. Chocolate eggs adorned with ribbons and wrapped in brillantly colored paper are given to children. On Easter, sacred dramas depicting the resurrection of Christ are held throughout Italy - especially in Sicily. In each part of Italy, there are are unique traditions and foods served during the Easter season. On Easter Monday (little Easter), processions and manifestations of religious devotion and the traditional picnic take place. Our family, typical of most Italian-American families, celebrates Easter with the traditions brought by my grandparents from Italy. It is a religious holiday, a family celebration that ends with an elaborate dinner and visiting. Pupu cu l'ova the traditional Easter sweet is made, and we all feel a sense of keeping faith with our roots when we make and eat them. At our church we have the blessing of Easter foods, and I always bring Pupu cu l'ova and gfive one to the priest. Last year, another Italian-American family brought an Italian-Easter bread. In our non-Italian parish, there was great interest and much praise for the Italian sweets we brought to be blessed. There seems to be great admiration and respect for our Italian traditions by many non-Italians I know. Across the United States, I have been hearing from Italian-Americans who strongly agree with my many appeals to keep our Italian traditions alive. I see a renaissance taking place. Many of us, have come to sense a real joy in keeping our traditions alive, and my sincere hope is that more of our people will feel the same. Buona Pasqua! |
by Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo One of the greatest titles ever given is the title of Mother! I think Italian and Italian American mothers had additional duties based on our culture. How could one person be asked to do so much?
The stress is staggering. It requires a great deal of sacrifice. Deep love made their role possible. The bond is so strong they are never forgotten. Not only on Mother's Day but everyday is celebrated in remembrance of her, who loved us to the core. Mother dear tante grazie! |
Italians have made his feast day an unofficial holiday, not only in Sicily but all over Italy. It once was a national holiday and the Italians are considering it again. The vote is down to either the feast of St. Joseph or St. Anthony as a national holiday. St. Joseph as the foster father of Jesus is honored in so many ways. Many churches, shrines, pilgrimage centers, order of priests, nuns, cities and individuals bear his name. St. Joseph never said one word in the Scriptures but he did have a very unique honor, he was chosen to be the foster father, care giver, and teacher of the Son of God. In turn he is honored around the world. Not only is St. Joseph the patron of the Universal Church but also Austria, Belgium, Bohemia, Canada, China, Mexico, Peru, Russia, Vietnam, dioceses, workers in general, carpenters, contractors, engineers, and artisans. Italians in different regions have special foods to celebrate the feast. The St. Joseph Table is a Sicilian tradition and foods like "bucatini con sarde," "tubetti con ceci" are two special pasta dishes. S'fingi (Sicilian) - with ricotta) and "zeppole" (Calabrian - with custard) are two of many St. Joseph pastries served on the holiday. March 19 is the feast of St. Joseph but many organizations celebrate on the Sunday before or after the 19th. March is often cold and bleak, the feast adds color, joy and tradition to the time of year that we need a celebration. This year be sure to celebrate the feast with children and tell them about the feast and why St. Joseph is so special. The St. Joseph Table came about because of prayers, the rains came after a very serious drought that could have brought death. No matter your religion or etnic background, it is a celebration that everyone will enjoy. You are always welcome to our Association's celebration! |
| Why is it important to preserve our Italian heritage? Does it really matter? Most Italian Americans will say it isn't important because they are already assimilated. We know there are many reasons why assimilation has taken place. You don't treasure and don't know. The truth is that most Italian Americans know very little about their Italian heritage. Our heritage and culture is much more than food. Our Italian legacy has given us so much and that is all we need to do is to claim it. So many people have loved Italy and the Italian people over the centuries. Have you ever wondered why? Over 30 million people visit Italy each year and the reasons tell you why our Italian heritage is a treasure. We have been given a value system that gives meaning to life. That heritage teaches us what is really important and how to enjoy life! History is behind our Italian surnames and this history sheds light on who we are. We also share a unique experience in the United States and we are richer for it. Our traditions and customs enrich the celebration of life. Those of us who treasure our Italian heritage because of what it has done for us, want to pass it on. All over this nation there are people of like mind. In spite of all that has taken place we lay claim to our Italian heritage and make it a part of our lives. Each of us is capable of informing the public what our Italian heritage means to us. We should be willing to give some of our treasure to support our efforts to preserve our heritage. You're invited to use your talents in our many different efforts to pass our heritage to the next generation. My hope is our committment is much more than words. Too often it is just words. It really does matter that our Italian heritage is preserved and with your help it will be! |
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