On March 6, the District of Columbia Council unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the 150th anniversary of Italy becoming a modern country. This historic event occurred on
March 17, 1861 is officially called the Unification of Italy. The resolution introduced by Ward 2 Councilmember Jack Evans also recognizes the influence of Italy on Washington architecture,
including the U.S. Capitol, the White House, the Supreme Court building and even the D.C. “City Hall,” the John Wilson Building. It also notes the contribution of Italian sculptors and stone masons on Washington landmarks, such as Union Station and the National Cathedral. The resolution recognizes that Washington and Rome are Sister Cities, as of June, 2011.
Joe Grano, president of The Rhodes Tavern-DC Heritage Society and proposer of the resolution, praised the Council for its noble action and thanked Jack Evans: “Jack is an outstanding public servant who really cares about Washington as a world-class city.” Grano also noted how ironic it is that the District has honored Italy for its 150th anniversary as a nation, but the Congress hasn’t, as yet. ##
