Washington, D.C. – On December 10, Italy’s Ambassador to the United States, Marco Peronaci, and Rosie Rios, Chair of the 250th Anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence Committee, signed a memorandum of understanding at Villa Firenze to formalize collaboration between Italy and the United States on initiatives marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.
“The program highlights Italy’s role and the contributions of the Italian-American community to the United States, from migration history to cultural, scientific, and social achievements,” said Ambassador Peronaci. The first events, scheduled for January, will include the 25th anniversary of the Italy-US memorandum on cultural heritage protection. Other initiatives will feature music, with conductor Gianandrea Noseda and the National Symphony Orchestra, cinema, and science, along with events exploring figures such as Filippo Mazzei. A major highlight will be an exhibition of Roman statues dedicated to Emperor Trajan, exploring the enduring impact of Roman civilization.
The program will be implemented in partnership with organizations including the National Italian American Foundation. Following the signing, a panel discussion took place with Anita McBride, Barbara Faedda, and Lisa Sasaki, among others, highlighting the cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations.