HISTORY

            Italy was ruled from the mid-1800’s under King Victor Emmanuel II of the House of Savoy and subsequently other kings of the House of Savoy ruled through World War I and World War II until 1946 when the Italian citizens voted on a referendum to become a Republic.

            In celebration of their democracy, Italy hosts a national holiday, Festa della Repubblica, every year on June 2, the date it officially became a Republic in 1946.

            On June 2, 2004, my husband and I were in Rome, Italy, and witnessed the majesty of this historical event. Hundreds of thousands of people, including individuals from all over the world, lined the streets as the many military divisions of the different services marched past the President of Italy and various international dignitaries. Listening to the unique sound of the Italian military bands, watching the smartly-dressed soldiers parade past the cheering crowd, and marveling at the famous Bersaglieri soldiers in their wide-brimmed hats decorated with big black feathers jogging down the ancient streets of Rome was absolutely memorable.

            As an Italian-American who grew up in a traditional Italian household and who continues to promote the Italian culture, this was truly an awe-inspiring experience. I was so deeply moved that I wanted to create an event in the Tampa Bay area that celebrated this historic event touching on its meaning and significance. It is an Italian holiday unfamiliar to many Italian-Americans and I wanted to share it with everyone back home.

            In discussing my idea of a unique event to celebrate Italian National Day with my fellow council members of the Daughters of Italy Lodge, I tried to express my passion and desire to undertake this cultural commitment. Because the event is of such importance, we decided to encompass the whole Tampa Bay area and chose to ask our sister lodge, Loggia Mona Lisa, and its president, Antoinette Caporice, to co-host the annual event with us.

            With members from both lodges we work as a team on a variety of committees throughout the year to bring an outstanding and unforgettable Festa della Repubblica to the Italian community. We are so proud, each year, to promote our Italian culture as well as recognize the accomplishments of outstanding Italian Americans who are lauded for their achievements.

            Our annual Festa della Repubblica (Italian National Day celebration) is a labor of love for our heritage and in memory of our parents, grandparents, and families.

Vincenza DiLiberti, President

Daughters of Italy Lodge #2825

Clearwater, FL