TRENTON-Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) announced a Senate resolution supporting the preservation of Columbus Day as a federal and state holiday. The resolution will be formally introduced at the next Senate session.

“New Jersey has the second highest population of people of Italian ancestry in the country,” Senator Pennacchio said. “For the 1.4 million Italian-Americans living in New Jersey, it is not enough for legislators to say we support the preservation of Columbus Day. We need to take action and show our constituents that we are committed to upholding their values, culture and heritage.”

Senator Pennacchio’s Senate resolution states that “the Senate recognizes the significance of Columbus’ arrival in the New World expresses its support of the Columbus Day holiday as a day to honor and celebrate the explorer’s historic achievement.” The resolution also notes that Italian-Americans observe the holiday as a day to recognize the contributions of their ancestors to America and the world.

“Christopher Columbus was instrumental in connecting our nation with Europe, a feat that built the fabric of American culture,” Senator Pennacchio added. “His courageous voyage to the New World spurred a lasting universal passion for exploration and discovery. He is and should be remembered as a hero for all Americans. It would be a shame to destroy his legacy for the sake of political correctness.”

The resolution has received the support of UNICO National, the nation’s largest Italian-American service and charitable organization, which is based in Fairfield, New Jersey.

Dominick Nicastro, National President of UNICO National stated, “Of course, Columbus Day is a vitally important day for Italian Americans, but it is truly a great holiday for all Americans, as we commemorate the opening of the new world by this great explorer. On behalf of our UNICO members in New Jersey and across the country, I sincerely thank and commend Senator Pennacchio for this important resolution supporting the preservation of the Columbus Day holiday.”

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