Since 1952, The Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans has served as the Congress of sixty-plus Italian American organizations in the Chicagoland area. Preservation of Italian Culture, Government Relations and the Unification of the Italian American community is its prime focus.
The Joint Civic Committee has two division: the Women’s Division and the Avanti Group. The current JCCIA Women’s Division President is Rose Mary Rannallo. The current Avanti Group President is Pasquale Gianni.
Connect with other Italian Americans looking to celebrate and maintain their culture… Join the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans! The JCCIA offers an Individual Membership and Affiliate Organization Membership for those looking to get involved and connect with the Italian community. Additionally, the JCCIA offers Corporate Partnerships, for corporate businesses looking to partner with the JCCIA and connect with the Italian community.
Over $250,000 has been awarded to students of Italian heritage over the years by the JCCIA through various scholarships. Also, over $200,000 has been awarded over the years to young Italian Americans through Women’s Division at their annual Scholarship/Fashion Show.
Since 1952, the Columbus Day celebration has been a generations-old tradition honoring the Chicagoland Italian American Community. During this day, we celebrate the wonders of Italian heritage and culture. “State Street, That Great Street” comes alive with floats, marching bands and performers! Above all, the Italian American community shines and showcases the organizations, businesses and initiatives that we are most proud of.
Annually, the JCCIA presents the coveted Dante Award to a member of the local news media who has answered Dante Alighieri’s call to be “No timid friend to truth.” In attendance is 250 representatives of the Italian American community and an impressive cross section of prominent Chicago media. Additionally, the JCCIA celebrates the remarkable life of Dominic DiFrisco, the founder of the Dante Awards, and one of our most valued leaders. Thus, the year 2020 marked the presentation of the first annual Dominic DiFrisco Lifetime Achievement Award.
From vibrant annual festivals and outings to enriching educational programs, the JCCIA and our Affiliate Organizations host a diverse array of events throughout the year! Explore our events calendar and join us in celebrating the rich heritage and enduring traditions of the Italian-American community!
Meeting Agenda: Interested members of the public who submitted eligible candidates will give brief presentations about their proposed nominees for the Italian American monument in Arrigo Park. This meeting will be recorded.
Who is eligible to vote: Chicago residents
Voting Form: Following the meeting, the Chicago Park District will post a voting form which will remain open from January 15th to Thursday January 29th, 2026.
Eligible nominees for Italian heritage monument:
· Amerigo Vespucci
· Antonin Scalia
· Enrico Fermi
· Florence Scala
· Maria Montessori
· Mother Francis Xavier Cabrini
· Phillip Mazzei
· Renato Dulbecco
Meeting date and Time:
Wednesday, January 14th, 5-7pm CT | Zoom
Please continue to check the Arrigo Park webpage for new information on the Italian Heritage Monument.