Oct. 29, 2025
NEW CASTLE – The House of Representatives today overwhelmingly approved
House Resolution 353, sponsored by Rep. Marla Brown (R-Lawrence). The measure designates October 2025 as Italian and Italian American History and Culture Month in Pennsylvania.
Brown, who is an Italian American and longtime resident of New Castle, said the resolution is deeply personal and celebrates the history, culture and contributions of Italian Americans across the Commonwealth.
“New Castle is home to one of the most vibrant Italian American communities in the country,” said Brown. “More than one in four residents here trace their roots to Italy, and their cultural legacy is everywhere. You can see it in our food, family traditions and even in the fireworks that light up our skies. This resolution is about honoring the spirit of hard work, faith and community that Italian immigrants brought with them and passed down through generations.”
New Castle, located in Lawrence County, has one of the highest concentrations of Italian Americans in Pennsylvania. The city’s history is closely tied to Italian heritage, from the well-known Sunday Sauce Trail of family-owned restaurants to the world-famous Zambelli Fireworks and Pyrotecnico, both founded by Italian immigrants.
Across the state, more than 1.4 million Pennsylvanians report Italian ancestry, making Italian Americans one of the largest ethnic groups in the Commonwealth.
“Since 1989, October has been recognized nationally as Italian American Heritage Month,” said Brown. “By celebrating it here in Pennsylvania, we are honoring those who came before us and also reaffirming the values they passed down to us.”
Representative Marla Brown
9th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437 (office), 717.497.8478 (cell)
Rleiner@pahousegop.com
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