In this episode of The Italian American Podcast, hosts John, Pat, and Marcella welcome guests Joe Nasello and Anthony Marucci to discuss the launch of Insieme, a new youth initiative by UNICO, the nation’s largest Italian American service organization. Amid declining membership in Italian American organizations, the conversation explores how partnerships with high schools, student clubs, and local communities can cultivate a new generation of leaders dedicated to their cultural heritage. The discussion also examines UNICO’s founding in 1922, when Italian Americans faced discrimination and exclusion from established civic organizations, and its longstanding commitment to charitable service and cultural preservation.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of cooperation among educational institutions, the Italian government, and organizations such as the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and the Order Sons of Italy in America. Through cultural activities, community service, and educational events, Insieme aims to complement classroom instruction while fostering a stronger sense of identity and belonging among young Italian Americans. The participants also address the challenges facing Italian language programs in American schools, stressing the need for continued advocacy and recognizing language education as a vital link to Italy’s cultural and historical legacy.

The episode concludes with an invitation to the inaugural Insieme Congress and a call for greater unity and participation throughout the Italian American community. Above all, the conversation highlights the responsibility of each generation to pass on its heritage, ensuring that the traditions, values, and institutions of Italian America endure and flourish.

To learn more about UNICO visit:
https://www.unico.org/

HOSTED BY:
Patrick O’Boyle
John Viola
Marchella Martin

SPECIAL GUESTS:
Joe Nasello
Anthony Marucci

PRODUCED BY:
Nicholas Calvello-Macchia