Throughout the history of The Bronx there have been many immigrant groups that make up the beautiful tapestry of our diverse borough.
Italians are no exception with over a century of history in The Bronx that has left an undeniable presence that’s more than just Little Italy and Arthur Avenue in Belmont but in every facet of daily life from politics to entertainment to the arts and science.
The immigrant experience for Italians wasn’t an easy one even in The Bronx with many facing discrimination for simply being different. (sounds familiar? Check out this thoughtful piece on Italian Americans: When We Were The Muslims). Now, Dr Kathleen LaPenta, PhD of Fordham University is seeking to document the history of Italians in The Bronx as part of the overall Bronx African American History Project.