IL PENSIERO “THE THOUGHT”
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Febbraio 2025 THE ONLY ITALIAN NEWSPAPER PUBLISHED IN THE STATE OF MISSOURI
NUMERO 2
An Italian American Publication
NIAF Congratulates Mike Johnson on Re-Election as Speaker of the House
a significant chapter in Italian American history, as Sicilian immigrants first came to the region in the late 19th century to work in the sugarcane fields, establishing a vibrant community that continues to enrich the cultural fabric of the Gulf Coast today. This historic succession of Italian American Speakers reflects the deep commitment to public service that has long been a hallmark of the Italian American community. Speaker Johnson follows the distinguished leadership of his immediate predecessors, Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Speaker Nancy Pelosi (DCA), marking an unprecedented era of Italian American representation in this vital constitutional role. About NIAF The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that promotes the Italian culture and heritage. Founded in 1975, NIAF has been a leading advocate for Italian Americans, preserving their legacy and promoting their contributions to the United States.
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) extends its warmest congratulations to Congressman Mike Johnson on his re-election as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. Speaker Johnson, who first assumed this role in October 2023, was re-elected on January 3, 2025, continuing his historic tenure as the third consecutive Italian American to hold this prestigious position. “The re-election of Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House reinforces an extraordinary period of Italian American leadership in one of our nation’s highest offices,” said NIAF Chairman Robert Carlucci. “To witness three consecutive Italian American Speakers of the House demonstrates the remarkable contributions our community continues to make to American public service. We could not be prouder of this achievement and the incredible leadership emerging from the Italian American community.” Speaker Johnson, who represents the 4th District of Louisiana, carries forward a proud Italian American heritage through his maternal grandfather, a Sicilian immigrant. His roots in Louisiana reflect
NIAF Names Lazio as 2025 Region of Honor
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is pleased to announce the Italian region of Lazio as its designated Region of Honor for 2025. This historic region, home to Rome, the capital of Italy,
St. Louis, Missouri 63123
CONTINUOUS SERVICE AND ACTIVITY SINCE 1904
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and steeped in profound significance, marks a momentous year as it coincides with both the Jubilee Year and NIAF’s 50th Anniversary. “NIAF is thrilled to celebrate the extraordinary Lazio region during this landmark year,” said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. “From its unparalleled historical heritage to its vibrant modern essence, Lazio embodies the depth and dynamism of Italian excellence.” “I am glad and honored that Lazio will be the 2025 NIAF Region of Honor. I am sure that this circumstance will help to boost our already flourishing relations with the United States and that it will be useful to raise awareness on all that our region has to offer in terms of beauty and heritage, but also in the field of high technology and innovation,” added President of the Region Lazio Francesco Rocca. The region offers an extraordinary tapestry of experiences that spans millennia of human civilization. Lazio stands as a testament to historical continuity, serving as the heartland of pivotal civilizations: the birthplace of the Etruscan civilization, the central stage of the Roman Republic, the epicenter of the Roman Empire, the core of the Papal States, a key territory of the Kingdom of Italy, and now a vibrant part of the Italian Republic. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the architectural marvels of its urban centers, Lazio represents a Continued on page 5