Welcome Friends / Benvenuti Amici,

It is my great honor to serve the Federation of Italian-American Societies of WNY as President. Our Federation, currently in its 116th year, is the umbrella organization for Italian Societies and organizations throughout Western New York.

Our purpose is to promote understanding and appreciation of the Italian culture and the recognization of contributions and achievements of Italian-American members in our community, and to actively engage, support and promote the civic, educational and cultural goals of our community.

Our rich history includes:

• The donation of many landmark monuments to the City of Buffalo celebrating great Italians

• The creation of a documentary “La Terra Promessa”, book and musical detailing the history of the Italian community of Buffalo.

• The creation of the musical Italian Serenade beautifully retelling the Buffalo Italian immigrant story of our earliest arrivals.

• The creation of the keepsake book, “La Terra Promessa” honoring many Italian-American families of Buffalo retelling each of their own personal stories to pass down to our future generations.

• Honoring yearly the achievements of Italians through the Italian Heritage Parade and Gala.

• Promoting the events of our member organizations.

• Promoting the study of the Italian language and defending Italian-Americans, Italian culture, values, and traditions when attacked.

Over the past few years we have seen tremendous growth with the addition of new organizations to our Federation along with many new At-Large members.

It is my hope that this Federation will continue to grow and be a major presence and voice for the Italian community of Western New York for at least another 116 years!

Grazie e “ Viva l’Italia!”
Peter LoJacono