Fra Noi Embrace Your Inner Italian
The Consulate General of Italy in Chicago celebrated the 80th anniversary of la Festa della Repubblica in grand fashion on June 4 at the Chicago History Museum.
The event was spearheaded by Consul General Mario Bartoli and his staff with the support and involvement of the Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago, Italian Trade Agency, Italian National Tourist Board, Italian American Chamber of Commerce Midwest, and other local and regional authorities, as well as a host of sponsors.
More than 400 leaders from both sides of the Atlantic packed the Morse Genius Chicago Room at the CHM and poured out onto the plaza behind the museum during the festivities. Food stations and information booths were arrayed indoors and out, and music was provided by the La Tosca Quartet.
A gentle breeze blew in off Lake Michigan as Daniela Crocco opened the official ceremony with renditions of the Italian and American national anthems.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson participated in person and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul sent a proclamation in celebration of Republic Day.
Also on hand were Eugenio Di Sciascio, councilor for economic development for Puglia, and a delegation from the region.
Aurelio Bartolotta, community activist and owner of Elio Pizza on Fire, was honored as a Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy at the event.
