IACRL PRESIDENT RESPONDS TO MAYOR’S VIDEO & COLUMBUS DAY PARADE SNUB

A polished video celebrating Italian Americans does not erase past disrespect toward our heritage and traditions.

IACRL President Mike Crispi is calling out Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s Italian American Heritage Month message and his decision to skip Columbus Day celebrations.

“Zohran Mamdani can produce a hundred videos praising Italian Americans, but until he acknowledges the disrespect he has shown our community and apologizes, his words are meaningless.” — Mike Crispi

Columbus Day holds deep historical significance for Italian Americans, representing dignity, acceptance, and belonging during a time of widespread discrimination.

Our heritage is not negotiable. Our history deserves recognition. Our community deserves respect.