Rome, October 15, 2024 – In-depth discussions, networking, and exchanges with industry experts and enthusiasts marked the success of Italea’s mission to New York during Columbus Day and the “Year of Italian Roots Worldwide.” The Big Apple hosted a rich program of events dedicated to celebrating Italian traditions and culture. From October 8 to 14, the project to promote Roots Tourism, launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation as part of the PNRR and funded by NextGenerationEU, was at the center of a series of initiatives. These included book presentations, concerts, exhibitions, conferences, masterclasses, press meetings, and tours with operators, all aimed at introducing Italea to Italians abroad and Italian descendants interested in exploring their heritage and traditions. Roots Tourism is designed to highlight cultures, rituals, and traditions while promoting lesser-known destinations off the typical tourist path. This project engages over 800 small Italian municipalities, winners of the cultural activities grant, to attract Italian descendants.
Italea’s mission in New York offered a valuable opportunity to showcase Italian cultural heritage and strengthen the ties between Italy and the United States, culminating on October 14 with the Columbus Day parade on 5th Avenue. Representatives from various Italian regions, Italea, and the regional Italea organizations proudly marched. “Columbus Day provides a platform to introduce younger generations to Italian traditions, history, and culture. It also highlights the positive impact Italian-Americans have had on American society, from art to music, economy to cuisine, and cinema. Participating in a parade like this helps build a sense of community and belonging, while strengthening the bonds between Italy and the Italian-American community here in New York. To all of them, we extend an invitation: come take a roots journey in Italy and discover the homeland of your ancestors. We’re waiting for you!” said Luigi Maria Vignali, Director General for Italians Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
