Published:
Watch Flag Raising Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yilwTqogmbY
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins hosted members of the Italian-American community for the County's annual Italian Heritage Month flag-raising ceremony at the Michaelian Office Building in White Plains. The celebration brought together everyone to recognize the generations of Italian-Americans who have helped shape Westchester County through their contributions to business, education, government and community life.
The annual ceremony included the raising of the Italian flag, followed by a reception in the County Executive's office. This event offers an opportunity to celebrate Italian culture, recognize the accomplishments of Italian-Americans throughout Westchester, and reflect on the family traditions and values passed down from one generation to the next.
Jenkins said: “The Italian-American community has played an important role in the history and growth of Westchester County. Generations of families have built businesses, raised families and helped strengthen the neighborhoods we call home. Italian Heritage Month is a wonderful opportunity to recognize those contributions and celebrate the traditions and strong sense of community that remain such an important part of Westchester.”
Deputy County Executive Joan McDonald said: “Italian Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to recognize the many ways Italian-Americans have helped make Westchester County what it is today. This celebration is about recognizing that history, honoring the traditions that have been passed down and thanking our Italian-American neighbors for all they continue to contribute to Westchester.”
County Attorney John Nonna said: “For Italian-Americans, this celebration is about remembering where we came from and recognizing the sacrifices made by those who came before us. Many of our parents and grandparents came to this country seeking opportunity and worked hard to give their children a better future. They brought with them a deep appreciation for family and community. Those values remain with us today, and it is important that we continue to share that history with younger generations.”
President of the Westchester Coalition of Italian American Organizations Mara Persampieri said: “This annual flag-raising ceremony is a special opportunity for Italian-Americans throughout Westchester to come together and celebrate our shared heritage. We are proud of our community's traditions and contributions, and we are especially pleased to encourage younger generations to learn about their roots by studying the Italian language and culture. We thank County Executive Jenkins and Westchester County for continuing this annual tradition and recognizing the importance of our Italian-American heritage.”
Italian Heritage Month is celebrated each October to recognize the history, culture and achievements of Italian-Americans across the United States. The annual observance also gives younger generations an opportunity to learn about their heritage and the experiences of the families who came before them.
Westchester County's annual flag-raising ceremony and reception continue a longstanding tradition of bringing the community together to celebrate Italian heritage and recognize the role Italian-Americans have played in the County's history.
