June 04, 2012

Vaughan, Ontario:  The Honourable Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defence, and Member of Parliament for Vaughan, was on hand today at Italian Republic Day at Queen’s Park in Toronto and at Vaughan City Hall on Saturday, June 2, 2012 for commemorative Flag Raising ceremonies.

“Our Government appreciates the valuable contributions the Italian-Canadian community has made to our national identity,” said Minister Fantino. “It is important that their achievements be celebrated and never forgotten.”

Minister Fantino encourages residents of Vaughan to learn more about the contributions of Canadians of Italian heritage and to participate in the festivities in Vaughan and the GTA during the month of June. For more information on festivities during the month of June; Italian Heritage Month please visit http://www.canadese.org/ .

“While we celebrate the 151st Anniversary of the Foundation of Italy, let us remember the Italians who are experiencing difficult time as a result of the recent earthquakes and those that have perished as a result. Let us also remember the resiliency and determination of Italians who come together and overcome difficulties to stand together as one,” Said Michael Tibollo President of the National Congress of Italian Canadians. “Our community of Canadians of Italian heritage now more than ever have them in our hearts and prayers.”

The Vaughan community has an opportunity to become aware of the history of Italian-Canadians, both in Vaughan and across the nation, including the founding and pioneering experiences. The Italian community has contributed to arts, culture, sports, media, literature, education, politics, business and many other facets of Canadian society.