Tuesday, February 24, 2015

The Italian Americans on PBS TONITE!



The Italian AmericansThe Italian Americans Concludes
Are you Italian American?  Then you need to tune into WETA tonight, February 24 for part 2 of the first-ever documentary on the Italian American immigration movement, The Italian Americans.  My mother called me on the phone Sunday and said, "Alyssa, you need to watch this program on WETA.  It tells my story, how I grew up.  How my grandparents struggled.  And how our culture overcame harsh discrimination with such pride and dignity."  As if I was not proud enough to be Italian American - I have a few more reasons now to brag - and of course to listen to Mamma - about my culture and would like to enlighten CioaDC readers as well!

Documented by John Maggio Productions, The Italian Americans traces the journey of Italian Americans from the late 19th century to the present. This week, the film concludes with a look at the second generation of Italian Americans entering the labor movement in politics, sports and entertainment, including notable figures such as Fiorello LaGuardia, Joe DiMaggio and Frank Sinatra.

Gather your children, friends, parents, grandparents and watch this informative slice of our history.  And then talk about it.  Share your family's experience, tell the world about it and never forget where you came from!  Viva Italia!

The Italian Americans airs Tuesday, February 24 at 9pm on WETA TV 26 and WETA HD.