In celebration of Italian Heritage Month, Westchester County Executive George Latimer hosted a ceremonial flag-raising at the Michaelian Office Building in White Plains. The event, attended by community members and local leaders, celebrated the contributions of Italian-Americans to the County’s history and culture.
Latimer said: “Italian Heritage Month offers us the chance to celebrate our Italian-American community, which has enriched Westchester’s cultural landscape for generations. It’s an honor to come together to recognize and celebrate those contributions, which continue to shape the diverse fabric of our County.”
Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “This annual event continues to remind us of how Italian-Americans have shaped Westchester County. Their contributions to Westchester’s economic and social development are undeniable, and this celebration recognizes those contributions.”
County Attorney John Nonna said: “As someone with Italian roots, today’s ceremony holds special meaning. It allows us to honor the legacy of our ancestors, who came here seeking opportunity and built thriving communities rooted in hard work, family and tradition.”
President of the Westchester Coalition of Italian American Organizations Mara Persampieri said: “The flag-raising ceremony provides a wonderful opportunity for our Italian-American community of Westchester County to come together and celebrate our heritage and to honor Italian Language students with scholarships donated by prominent individuals like John DeCicco and Michael Endico who want to give back and recognize these students.”
Italian Heritage Month is celebrated annually in October across the United States, recognizing the lasting impact of Italian culture and traditions on American society. Westchester’s flag-raising ceremony highlighted the importance of embracing and honoring the rich, diverse backgrounds that strengthen the County. The flag-raising ceremony was followed by a reception in the County Executive’s office with an array of Italian dishes and a distribution of scholarships from the DeCicco and Endico families to Italian Language students across the County.
Watch the flag-raising ceremony here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17SYHXXCiQ0
