Dated: October 14, 2026
CELEBRATING OCTOBER AS NATIONAL
ITALIAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
WHEREAS, October was proclaimed as National Italian American Heritage Month in 1989, by President George H.W. Bush, acknowledging the traditions, contributions, and achievements of Italian immigrants and Italian-Americans; and WHEREAS, from the early explorers to the 5.5 million working class immigrants who arrived in the United States between 1820 and 2000, Italian Americans have helped shape and develop our nation; and
WHEREAS, Italian Americans make up the fifth largest ethnic group in the nation with more than 26 million Americans of Italian descent in the United States; and WHEREAS, upon arrival in the United States, the Italian American community faced racial, social, and religious discrimination, yet Italian Americans have persevered with hope and hard work to reach for the American dream and helped build our great country; and
WHEREAS, Italian Americans have greatly contributed to the success of their communities, including David W. Ratto, the first Italian American to become South San Francisco Mayor in 1936, Dr. Anthony Fauci, for his leadership in the creation of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS, and COVID-19, as well as Mario Capecchi who in 2007 won a Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine, entertainers Frank Sinatra, Lady Gaga, and chef Guy Fieri; and
WHEREAS, bound by enduring values of faith and family, Italian Americans have successfully contributed to the culture and industry of the United States by influencing arts and education, business and government, social service, and scientific and technological advancements in America.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of South San Francisco proclaims the month of October as National Italian American Heritage Month and calls upon our community to learn more about the rich history of Italian Americans, especially in South San Francisco.
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Mark Addiego, Mayor
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Mark Nagales, Vice Mayor
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James Coleman, Councilmember
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Eddie Flores, Councilmember
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Buenaflor Nicolas, Councilmember