The friends of IlNewyorkese report that last night, in New York, the 25th anniversary of the Federation of Campanian Associations USA was celebrated, with the presence of numerous personalities and members of the Campanian community residing in the United States. The event highlighted the tireless work of the federation, a point of reference for Campanian associations in the country and a symbol of the continuity of Italian traditions on American soil.
The Federation, which brings together the main associations of the Campanian community in the United States, represents a tangible example of how Italian traditions can continue to thrive in a new and different context, yet always rooted in memory and values. The president of the Federation, Cav. Nicola Trombetta, spoke to us about the event with emotion and historical awareness: “The federation was officially founded in 1989, but it is since 2000 that we have been able to consolidate our work, uniting the various associations. It’s difficult, but our commitment continues, because the Campanian traditions must remain alive.”
President Trombetta then emphasized the challenges the federation has faced over the years, from the closure of some associations due to Covid, to the need to engage young people in the cause. “We are left with about thirty registered associations and we hope not to decrease further. Our goal is to pass on our roots to the new generations, to our children, our grandchildren, because only in this way can we continue to grow our community.”
Among the distinguished guests of the evening was Hon. Christian Di Sanzo, who highlighted the importance of the Federation and its commitment to preserving the historical memory of Campania in the United States. “25 years of the federation are a sign of vitality and passion,” Di Sanzo stated. “Even today, the associations are very present in the territory and continue to remind us of our origins, Campania, and all the Campanians who made the United States great. Congratulations to this association for all the future successes that will come.”
Senator Francesca La Marca was also present, sharing her enthusiasm for the event and expressing satisfaction with the milestone reached by the Federation. “Today, I am very happy to be here in New York, in the Bronx, to celebrate the 25 years of the Federation of Campanian Associations in the USA, a great and important federation that gathers many members. 25 years is an important milestone for any association, but it is even more special given its proximity to International Women’s Day.” La Marca then continued, praising the figure of the Campanian woman: “We celebrate the tenacity, the skill, and the charm of the Campanian woman, especially those who pass on their culture here in the United States. Congratulations to all of you!”
Giuseppe Fasanella, awarded Man of the Year, wanted to express his gratitude for the invitation and the recognition he received. “It is an honor to be here tonight as Honoree for the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Campanian Associations USA. I have been and will always be available to Italians, and I will do everything possible to pass on our Campanian traditions around the world,” said Fasanella, a true witness to Campanian culture.
Anna Malafronte, Woman of the Year, shared her emotion at being part of such a significant event. “I am very proud to be here with the Federation of the Campanian Association, as I am of Campanian origin and have worked with them for many years. Thanks to my work at the consulate, I am still involved in this Italian-American community, which I continue to cherish,” Malafronte stated. A commitment that, as she emphasized, she continues to carry forward with heart and dignity.
President Trombetta, awarding Anna Malafronte, emphasized, “A woman who has dedicated her life to promoting Italian traditions and strengthening the Campanian community.”
In addition to the awards, the event featured a series of dances and a charity auction, with the proceeds destined to support the activities of the federation. Attendees had the opportunity to have fun, but also to contribute concretely to the growth of the Federation of Campanian Associations USA.
The event, under the presidency of Gala Chairman Enrico Romano, saw the participation of numerous personalities who enriched the evening with their presence and contribution. Among the distinguished guests were Cav. Tony Pasquale, President of Radio ICN NY, who opened the evening with his speech. Other well-known figures from the Italian-American community included Cav. Rocco Manzollito, President of the Madonna del Sacro Monte Society, and Professor Maria Di BiagioAbate, involved in public relations for the Federation. Several members of the federation were also present, including Michele Maddalena, president of the Sons of Castello del Matese, and Lina Giardullo, who was entrusted with delivering flowers during the evening.
