SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION No. 16

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

INTRODUCED FEBRUARY 15, 1996

By Senator BUBBA

A Joint Resolution designating the week ending October 12 of every year as Italian-American History Week.

Whereas, The history of America and the State of New Jersey have been significantly influenced by the heritage of Italy including the contributions of Italian culture, architecture, music, literature, painting, sculpture and cuisine; and

Whereas, Over 5.4 million Italians emigrated to the United States between the years 1820 and 1991; and

Whereas, Over 2 million New Jerseyans are of Italian descent, according to the 1990 U.S. Census; and

Whereas, Italian-Americans have made many contributions to the history of the United States and New Jersey; and

Whereas, The voyages of the Italian explorer Christopher Columbus brought together the civilizations of Europe and the Americas; and

Whereas, Columbus' first contact with the New World in 1492 is celebrated as a State and federal holiday every year on October 12; and

Whereas, It is altogether fitting and proper to designate a week honoring the significant accomplishments and contributions of the Italian-American community by designating the week ending October 12 annually as Italian-American History Week; and

Whereas, It is appropriate to encourage American history classes in this State to highlight the contributions which Italian-Americans have made throughout American history; now, therefore,

    Be It Resolved by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

    1. The week ending on October 12 of every year is designated as Italian-American History Week.

    2. The Governor and Legislature of the State of New Jersey encourage American history classes throughout the State to discuss and examine the contributions which Italian-Americans have made to the history of this country during Italian-American History Week.

    3. This joint resolution shall take effect immediately.

STATEMENT

    This joint resolution designates the week ending on October 12 of every year as Italian-American History Week, and encourages American history classes throughout the State to discuss and examine the contributions of Italian-Americans to the history of this country. This resolution recognizes Italian-American history as important due to the significant influences which Italian culture, architecture, music, literature, painting, sculpture and cuisine have had on American history. This resolution further recognizes the important role which Americans of Italian descent have played throughout American and New Jersey history.

Designates the week ending October 12 of every year as Italian-American History Week.