Patricia Lattanzio
Patricia Lattanzio
Member of Parliament for Saint-Léonard—Saint-Michel
Celebrating Italian Heritage Month in the Riding!
June 21, 2024

This morning, our community came together to celebrate Italian culture, honouring the contributions of Italian Canadians. As a Member of Parliament for Saint-Léonard-Saint-Michel, a riding rich in Italian heritage, I was proud to host my inaugural Italian Heritage Month celebration.

The festivities began with the raising of the Italian flag, accompanied by the Italian and Canadian national anthems beautifully sung by Sonia Benedetto, a talented Canadian-Italian artist. The entertainment did not end there as the children from Pierre-de-Coubertin School’s Choir, led by their teacher Maria Concetta Alongi, took to the stage to perform. Their performance was a reminder of the importance of continuing to share our Italian language across generations. They were followed by the senior folk dance group Gruppo Folcloristico Delorme, who showcased three traditional Italian dances. These two performances were a testament to the intergenerational impact that Italian culture has both in the borough of Saint-Léonard and across Canada.

Remarks were offered by Consul Fortunato Carlo Mangiola representing the Consul General of Italy in Montreal, Dr. Enrico Pavone, highlighting that this celebration was a testament to the strong ties that exist between Canada and Italy.

We were also joined by many elected officials, including, Mayor Michel Bissonnet, City Councillor Josué Corvil, Borough Councillors Arij El Korbi, and Suzanne De Larochellière, as well as the Member of the National Assembly for Viau, Frantz Benjamin.

As I addressed the crowd, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own journey as an Italian Canadian. Growing up in Saint-Léonard, I was surrounded by the warmth and traditions of our culture. It is this sense of community and shared heritage that I strive to preserve and promote. Our Italian roots are woven into the fabric of this neighbourhood, making events like these so important and special.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this celebration not only a great success but very memorable. Together, we will continue to honour and cherish our Italian heritage, ensuring it remains a vital part of our community for generations to come.

 

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