The 39th Annual Brooklyn Columbus Day Parade held on October 9, 2021 was a success! It is always an enjoyable event, but more importantly, a celebration of Italian American culture and the contributions Italians made and continue to make to America and NYC.
This year’s Grand Marshals, Ana Oliveira, Senior VP Market Executive of Investors Bank; Nicholas Cutaneo, President of C&C Catering; Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn’s Premier Health Care Provider, were reflective of that ideal as we celebrated their service to the community during the challenging times of COVID-19. Many thanks to Eric Adams, Brooklyn Borough President, and other elected officials for joining us and for their ongoing support.
This year’s parade seemed to take on more significance as we are collectively recovering from the pandemic. We are grateful for the effort and dedication of the many bands, schools, and organizations as the parade would not been successful without their participation. Hearing the joyful music from the bands and seeing the smiles on the children’s faces was a beautiful celebration of community spirit. It not only ignited cultural pride but served as a model of resilience and unity among our diverse Brooklynites.
FIAO is proud to maintain this community tradition and we look forward to next year’s 40th Parade on Saturday, October 8, 2022!
Quotes from FIAO Il Centro Members:
“It was a beautiful day on 18th Avenue in Bensonhurst. The Italian Community rallied to represent our culture and pride with much support from the local community. The Columbus Parade was a success, and I am so grateful that my family was a part of it! Thank you, FIAO Il Centro for making my family part of yours!” – Kimberly Bifolco, Member
“Due to COVID-19 and not having a parade last year, I did not expect to see so many people in attendance. However, when I saw those marching, heard the music, and listened to the stories of the speakers, I become very emotional. They were sharing the experience of an Italian immigrant sacrificing everything to come to this country. That was my story too. It was beautiful.” – Lorenzo DiGeronimo
