Speech #990195627

Honoring 40 years of the strong and resilient Italian democracy also provides us with an opportunity to acknowledge the important contributions which more than 12 million ItalianAmericans have made in building and strengthening our own Nation. The story of the voyages of hundreds of thousands of Italians to America during the late 19th and early 20th century is a familiar one. Many of these immigrants endured significant hardships and difficulties in search of a new future for themselves and for their children. Supported by a strong value system. centered on their families and a commitment to hard work. Italian immigrants have used their special talents to make their vision of a better life a reality. Today. we continue to benefit from the contributions of ItalianAmericans. Lee Iaccoca brought the Chrysler Corp. from the brink of bankruptcy and has admirably chaired the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island restoration effort.