Festa della Repubblica - June 2, 2009
What is Festa della Repubblica?
From Wikipedia (exit WisItalia) The Festa della Repubblica is celebrated on the second day of June, and it commemorates the institutional referendum of 1946 when (by universal suffrage) the Italian population was called to decide what form of government (monarchy or republic) to give to the country after World War II and the fall of Fascism. The birth of the Italian Republic (officially on June 2, 1946) is a key event of Italian contemporary history. Until 1946, Italy was officially a monarchy ruled by the House of Savoy, kings of Italy since the Risorgimento (and previously of Sardinia). However, Benito Mussolini, enjoying the support of the monarchy, imposed fascism after the October 28, 1922 March on Rome, eventually engaging Italy in World War II alongside Nazi Germany. In 1946, Italy became a republic after the results of a popular referendum. A Constituent assembly was elected at the same time.
Celebrating Italian National Day in Chicago
Representatives from WisItalia (Tony Bruno, Frank Alfano, Giovanna Miceli Jeffries, Rita Prigioni and Larry Godding) attended the celebration in Chicago at the invitation of the Consul General of Italy, Alessandro Motta. The evening reception was held at the Crystal Garden, Navy Pier, Chicago, IL. A special thanks to Eleonora Cammareri (Director of the Ufficio Scolastico) for recommending the invitation. More photos on Facebook >>
View the National Anthem of Italy (pdf), "L'inno di Mameli" and the National Anthem of the United States, "The Star-Spangled Banner."
Listen to the National Anthem of Italy, "L'inno di Mameli" (exit WisItalia).
