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Passing the Torch: The Making of an Italian American Matriarch
We are proud to announce that Danette Porto (left) and Danielle Salasavage are the first recipients of the 2026 Donna Distinta Award. The prestigious Donna Distinta Award, presented by the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations (COPOMIAO) and...
Italian American Groups File Federal Lawsuit Against Ohio’s Capital, Seeking Reinstallation of Columbus Statue
Columbus, Ohio faces a joint lawsuit filed to restore the Christopher Columbus statue removed in 2020 by Mayor Andrew Ginther during civil unrest. Columbus, Ohio (April 7, 2026) — Italian American organizations have filed a federal lawsuit against the City...
Baltimore’s Toppled Columbus Statue Revived on White House Grounds
A lasting victory for Italian Americans, as a Columbus statue now stands just steps from the White House. The Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations (COPOMIAO), in collaboration with the Trump Administration, installed a replica of the...
Carry Forward: Honoring Italian America’s Women Leaders
Every year, "Donna Distinta" honorees are recognized by Basil M. Russo for their standout contributions to the Italian American community and beyond.Honoring Women LeadersThe prestigious Donna Distinta Award, presented by Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA)...
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