Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY), a first-generation Italian American and a member of the Congressional Italian American Delegation, together with nine other sponsors, has reintroduced the National Museum of Italian American History Commission Act (H.R.1102). The earlier legislation (H.R. 9987) died when it was not enacted during the Second Session of the 118th Congress.
This legislation would establish a self-funded bipartisan Commission, to study the potential creation of a National Museum of Italian American History and Culture in Washington DC.
“As a first-generation Italian American, I am proud to introduce this legislation to begin the process of establishing a museum dedicated to the rich history and countless contributions of Italian Americans in our nation,” said Rep. Suozzi.
The Commission would be comprised of experts in museum planning and the immigrant experience in America. Modeled after legislation that paved the way for the creation of museums dedicated to the rich cultural history of other ethnic groups, like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Museum of Asian Art and Culture, and the National Museum of the American Latino, this bill would examine the feasibility of establishing, maintaining, funding, and operating a facility dedicated to the Italian American legacy as part of the Smithsonian Institution.
“I am honored to introduce this bill with Rep. Suozzi, with the goal of establishing the Smithsonian National Museum of Italian American History. The journey of my family—beginning with Nicola and Frank Rulli, who immigrated from Calabria to build a new life—reflects the resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit of so many Italian Americans. From working in steel mills and on local farms to opening the first Rulli Bros. Market in 1917, their story is one of hard work, sacrifice, and an enduring commitment to community. This museum will preserve and celebrate those contributions, ensuring that future generations understand the profound impact Italian Americans have had on shaping our nation’s history and culture,” said Rep. Michael A. Rulli, co-chair of the Italian American Congressional Delegation.
Francesco Isgro, President of the Italian American Museum of Washington DC, the first and only museum to showcase the contributions that Italians and Italian Americans have made to the Nation’s capital said that “It’s about time that Italian Americans step forward and demand their rightful place in our Nation’s history. We thank Representatives Tom Suozzi and Michael Rulli for leading this effort. We look forward to support the enactment of H.R. 1102.”
