National Italian American Foundation

It was an honor to celebrate Italian American Heritage Month at The White House last evening. The President and First Lady were in attendance. Earlier, we attended a White House briefing with the Office of Political Outreach and strategy, discussing key national issues. Energy, construction labor and data centers...to name a few. We were elated to hear very positive remarks regarding both the Italian American community in the US and the enduring strength of our relationship with Italy. The National Italian American Foundation and its leadership are at the forefront of galvanizing these efforts. NIAF is a nonprofit, nonpartisan supporter of the Italian American people, culture and heritage. National Italian American Foundation AZItalianchamber.org Robert Allegrini John Calvelli Anthony O'Boyle

Last night at Mar-a-Lago former President Donald J. Trump received NIAF Chairman Robert Carlucci and his wife, Alleen Carlucci. NIAF is fully committed to being a bipartisan organization dedicated to working with figures across the American political spectrum who are supportive of the Italian American community.

Proud moments at the White House! 🇺🇸🇮🇹 Watch as President Biden, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, and NIAF student ambassador Alexa Tabbacchino recognize the National Italian American Foundation. NIAF proudly sponsored a reception yesterday evening held by both President Joe Biden and the First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden, the first Italian American in the White House.

Attention Italian Americans of Michigan! The Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan is hosting their 25th Jubilee Anniversary Charity Gala this Sunday, October 20th, at the Italian American Cultural Center. Join the Italian community of Michigan for a celebration of the Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan! All registration information is located on the flyer below. 

A true honor to celebrate Italian American Heritage Month last night at The White House! Very moving opening remarks by Jill Biden, first-ever Italian American First Lady, and a passionate speech by President Joe Biden about the strength of the diplomatic relations between Italy and the US. Last night was also a showcase of the formidable work the Italian American community and organizations like the National Italian American Foundation and its leadership are spearheading around the country!

It’s Wednesday, October 16th and we’re covering NIAF's 49th Anniversary weekend! Don't miss this edition of NIAF News! NIAF News is your bi-weekly news flash on all the latest happenings in Italy and the Italian American community, brought to you by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF). Hosted by Gabriella Mileti, Director of Special Programs and PR at NIAF.

Celebrating Italian Heritage Month with A.P. Giannini – Founder of Bank of America! 🇮🇹💼 Did you know that the largest bank in the U.S., Bank of America, was founded by an Italian American? Amadeo Pietro “A.P.” Giannini, born to Italian immigrants from Genoa, Italy, in 1870 in San Jose, California, created what would become a financial giant. In 1904, Giannini opened the Banca d’Italia in San Francisco, providing loans and savings opportunities to hardworking immigrants, who were often rejected by other banks. Also known as “America’s Banker,” Giannini would even keep his banks open until 9 or 10 at night for the workers. After the devastating San Francisco earthquake of 1906, Giannini famously set up a temporary bank on the streets using a horse and wagon, offering loans on a handshake to help rebuild the city. Every single loan was repaid in full. In 1916, Giannini had opened several other locations of his bank, revolutionizing the idea of branch banking. By 1928, after opening over 500 branches across California, his Bank of Italy merged with Bank of America, cementing a new name and a bold mission. Beyond banking, Giannini financed major projects like the Golden Gate Bridge, helped fund early Hollywood, including Disney’s "Snow White" and Cecil B. DeMille’s "Ten Commandments," and supported California’s aerospace and agricultural industries. A.P. Giannini’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the impact of Italian American contributions. 🇮🇹

Today is Columbus Day! We at NIAF believe that Christopher Columbus’ courageous voyage was the catalyst that initiated over 500 years of immigration to the Americas by people from every corner of the Earth— all of whom were seeking a better life for their families. For this reason, Columbus should be remembered and celebrated not just by Italian Americans but by all Americans. NIAF is dedicated to preserving this holiday and the legacy of Christopher Columbus. In this light, NIAF has forged a partnership with the City of Genova to recognize the profound impact of Genovese native Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage in 1492. Additionally, NIAF collaborated with The White House to issue the Columbus Day Proclamations of 2022, 2023, and 2024 stating that Columbus Day is a day to "celebrate all the Italian Americans, whose courage and character reflect and help define our Nation." In an effort to encourage the younger generation to preserve Columbus' legacy, NIAF holds a Christopher Columbus Essay Contest ever year for high school students. Last year's essay winner will be recognized today at the National Columbus Day Ceremony at Columbus Circle in front of Washington, D.C.'s Union Station. How will you celebrate Columbus Day?

President Biden has issued A Proclamation on Columbus Day recognizing Monday, October 14th, as Columbus Day! “Columbus Day was founded by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892 in response to the horrific, xenophobic attack that took the lives of 11 Italian Americans the year before.” President Biden highlights the importance of Italian Americans, stating, "My Administration recognizes Italian Americans as a source of strength in our country's unshakeable alliance, strategic partnership, and deep friendship with Italy." NIAF is proud to work closely with The White House to strengthen the Italian American image and our ties between the U.S. and Italy. Read the full proclamation here: https://bit.ly/485NeYv

Did You Know? Italy is a World Leader in Shipbuilding! Italy leads the world in superyacht production, accounting for nearly 50% of global purchases—an incredible testament to Italian craftsmanship and innovation in the maritime industry. One of the key players is FINCANTIERI, one of the largest shipbuilders globally, known for its cutting-edge designs and high-quality naval and luxury vessels. The Port of Trieste (pictured), located in Friuli Venezia Giulia, plays a vital role in Italy’s thriving shipbuilding industry. Celebrate Italian Heritage Month by appreciating Italy's excellence in maritime innovation!