On Monday night, the Westchester County Board of Legislators hosted its annual Italian-American Heritage Celebration, honoring educator Joseph Liberti of Mamaroneck, and North Castle Supervisor Michael Schiliro.
Chair Vedat Gashi (D – New Castle, Somers, Yorktown) opened the ceremony saying, “Buona sera and welcome to the Board’s annual observance of Italian-American Heritage Month, when we pay tribute to the many contributions of Italians in Westchester County, and beyond. From Dante to DaVinci, Italians have enriched our world with icons of art, music, literature and thought. And Italian-Americans from Frank Sinatra to Enrico Fermi have had a tremendous impact on American culture and society.”
“Tonight we are honored to recognize two remarkable Italian-Americans who are widely known for the value and accomplishments they have brought to their respective communities – longtime educator Joseph Liberti of Mamaroneck, and North Castle Supervisor Michael Schiliro.”
Legislator Catherine F. Parker (D – Harrison, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, New Rochelle, Rye) presented the first proclamation saying, “The Italians who came to Westchester found a better life and went on to raise families that learned about the greatness of their new land and the importance of our democratic government to ensure freedom. Tonight, we honor one such man who took that lesson to heart, and then shared it with thousands of students … Joe Liberti is an extraordinary teacher, who has impacted the lives of each of his government and history students by instilling in them the value that participation in the democratic process matters. He has done this through a range of innovative programs and activities at Mamaroneck High School. We want to acknowledge Joe Liberti for sparking their interest in local government, for making civics cool again, and for being the kind of teacher we would all wish for students in our communities.”
Joseph Liberti said, “As the son of a proud Italian-American, Dr. Paul A. Liberti, who believed in serving his community and giving back to this great country, I'm excited and humbled to be recognized for my focus on youth civic engagement during Italian-American Heritage Month. The civic contributions of Italian-Americans over the past century have made Westchester a better place for all New Yorkers.”
Mr. Liberti is also a constituent of State Senator Shelley Mayer, who attended the ceremony to join in congratulating Mr. Liberti’s efforts on behalf of the students in her district.
The Board declared October 6, 2023 “Joseph Liberti Day” in Westchester County.
Minority Leader Margaret Cunzio (C – Mt. Pleasant, North Castle, Pleasantville, Valhalla, Sleepy Hollow, Briarcliff Manor) presented the second proclamation saying, “Michael Schiliro is a true public servant who does not hesitate to recognize all the good that others do. This is an opportunity to recognize his contributions to his community and his Italian-American heritage. His dedication is exemplified by his commitment to volunteerism and tireless efforts on behalf of the residents of North Castle. I am proud to honor Supervisor Schiliro with this award.”
Supervisor Schiliro accepted the award with gratitude saying, “Being recognized by the Westchester County Board of Legislators during Italian-American Heritage Month is one of the true honors of my life. Being raised in an Italian household, and having first generation Italian grandparents, we were raised on family values and giving back to your community. And most importantly, being decent in that effort. I’ve always felt so lucky that my upbringing included so many elements and facets of my Italian heritage. My parents, grandparents, and aunts and uncles all taught by example, and not by lectures. Upon my visits to Italy with my family, it all came full circle and made sense. I am extremely honored with this recognition.”
The Board declared October 4, 2023 “Michael Schiliro Day” in Westchester County.
Read the program for Monday night’s event at:
https://www.westchesterlegislators.com/images/Newsroom/2023/100223_IHM_Program.pdf