As fate would have it, the 100th birthday of UNICO coincides precisely with this year’s Columbus Day. UNICO was founded on October 10, 1922 in Waterbury, Connecticut. A group of 15 men, led by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola, came together to create what has become a very special, very proud, and very effective organization.
We truly believe Columbus Day is a “Great American Holiday” proudly celebrated by Italian Americans. We launched this phrase a number of years ago, and I’m proud to say that this phrase is becoming more and more recognized and main stream.
UNICO’s involvement, along with the Italian American community in a number of events, is aiding in the reversal of the anti-Columbus trend plaguing our country. We urge all Chapters to proceed with plans to hold Columbus Day and Italian Heritage month events. We suggest that this year’s theme and celebrations be held in honor of UNICO turning 100 years old.
We encourage all UNICANs to participate in celebrating and commemorating Columbus, one of the most significant figures in all of World History. The UNICO National Columbus Day Committee stands ready to assist with suggestions or even financial assistance. Review the following list to find and join a parade or celebration convenient for you:
Mark your calendars! The 78 th Annual Columbus Day Parade in New York City will take place on Monday, October 10th. This is our flagship National parade. We are thrilled to showcase: Celebrating 100 Years of “Service Above Self” 1922-2022. The parade will air live on WABC-TV from 12 Noon to 3 PM and ABC online. We will make this celebration bigger and better than ever! Come join us and be part of history! The following is information on several other planned Columbus Day parades: We encourage all to participate in any Columbus Day activities available to them.
- Nutley Belleville Columbus Day Parade – The 40th Annual Parade will take place on Sunday, October 9th starting at 12:30PM at the Belleville High School and will march towards Nutley High School.
- The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade will be on Sunday, October 9th, starting in Seaside Park, NJ at 1:00 P.M. Members and guests are to assemble at 12:00 P.M, usually on The Boulevard at J Street and head towards Seaside Heights. The UNICO float will be on hand to lead the march.
- The Philadelphia Columbus Day Parade will be held on Sunday, October 9th along its historic South Broad Street location. It will kick off from Broad & Moore at 12:00 P.M.
- The Chicago Columbus Day Parade will take place on Monday, October 10th. The
parade starts on State St. at Wacker Drive at 12:30 P.M. A float will be provided by the
West Suburban Chapter.
On October 9, 2022, there will also be parades in East Hanover, NJ and Hartford, CT. The UNICO National Columbus Day Committee is asking for donations. Your support will enable UNICO National to continue to be a visible presence during these important Columbus Day and heritage events. Individual donations may be made through the UNICO National website or you may send your donation to the National office earmarked “Columbus Day”. Please join us in celebrating “Columbus Day, a Great American Holiday” and October as “Italian Heritage and Culture Month!” Ciao for Now and “Sempre Avanti!” Cav. Ralph A. Contini, Executive Vice President and Columbus Day Chair
