Shelby Review

State Representative Joe Aragona welcomed a group of Italian Americans to the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing last week as part of an annual tradition marking Columbus Day. The visit, which has taken place for more than 25 years, involved members of the Italian American community from Macomb County traveling to the Capitol to celebrate their heritage.

The event, known as the Ramo Salerno Italian American Heritage Trip, began with a bus ride from the Italian Cultural Center. Participants attended a brief ceremony, had lunch, and toured the Capitol building. Aragona, a Republican from Clinton Township and himself an Italian American, led the tour, which included a stop on the floor of the Michigan House of Representatives, an area typically not open to the public. During the visit, Aragona presented awards to individuals who demonstrate the values of hard work, family, and community.

“I’m proud of my family’s Italian heritage, and I’m proud of how Italian Americans helped build this country,” Aragona said.

On Monday, Aragona sent a letter to President Trump thanking him for his recognition of Columbus Day. In the letter, Aragona wrote, “I am writing to express my gratitude and appreciation for your leadership and commitment to reestablishing Columbus Day throughout our nation. These efforts ensure Italian Americans can continue to celebrate our contributions without facing undue distortion of our heritage.”

Aragona also noted in his letter his frustration with Democrats, stating they have unfairly criticized the holiday and blocked his previous attempt to have October recognized as Italian American month in Michigan. He indicated that a resolution to honor Columbus and the contributions of Italian Americans is expected to be considered by the House later this month.