Governor Proclaims Italian American Heritage and Culture Month 2023

WHEREAS, October is National Italian American Heritage and Culture Month; and

WHEREAS, from the early explorers to the 5.5 million working class immigrants who arrived in the United States around the beginning of the twentieth century, Italian Americans have helped shape and develop our nation; and

WHEREAS, North Carolina has specific historical ties to the Italian culture, including early exploration, mass immigration, and business establishment; and

WHEREAS, there are an estimated 300,000 Italian Americans residing in North Carolina; along with their focus on family, faith, strong work ethic, and love of country, Italian Americans are particularly proud of their outstanding representation in industry, government, medicine, and academia in our great state; and

WHEREAS, Italian Americans have made significant economic and cultural contributions to our state and nation in the areas of government, science and technology, arts and entertainment, literature, products and design, and food; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina joins in celebrating the Italian American community and recognizes their contributions to the growth and prosperity of our state;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October, 2023, as “ITALIAN AMERICAN HERITAGE AND CULTURE MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.