L'Italo-Americano

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2025 www.italoamericano.org L'Italo-Americano 2 F r o m m u t u a l a i d societies to commu- nities, the step is short. Not in words, p e r h a p s , b u t i n reality, the transition has cer- tainly taken place. Excluding churches and religious organi- zations, mutual aid networks have historically been the most widespread form of voluntary a s s o c i a t i o n f o r m i l l i o n s o f i m m i g r a n t s i n t h e U n i t e d States. They also served as one of the few social lifelines available in urban environments where welfare support was scarce, helping people navigate moments of profound difficulty. Today, as language evolves alongside digital tools and communication methods, communities have taken on a new role. They serve as spaces for social connection, shared goals, and collective action—places where people come together to exchange ideas, support one another, and mobilize for change. From Mutual Aid societies for Italian immigrants to modern communities: the spirit remains the same From the Editor The experience gained by many organizations during the devastating Los Angeles wildfires—which threatened and partially consumed entire communities—made one thing unmistakably clear: teamwork is essential. Uniting efforts, offering support, and standing together isn't just helpful; in some cases, it has been, and likely will continue to be, the only way to face overwhelming challenges. Only by combin- ing physical and mental strength can people overcome crises that are simply too big to handle alone. A prime example of this is the charity work led by IwUsa, which we highlight in our cover story. It was one of many initiatives that stepped up in those darkest days, rolling up their sleeves and bringing relief where it was most needed. Their efforts underscored the power of networks, alliances, and collective action in times of crisis. Moreover, this experience has deepened the sense of belonging within the community. Charity work, the shared mission, and the act of transforming solidarity into concrete action have not only strengthened bonds but have also inspired members to seek new ways to contribute. The drive to help doesn't stop—it pushes forward, opening new oppor- tunities to be part of something bigger, something with last- ing impact. Between the mid-19th and mid-20th centuries, thousands of brotherhoods, clubs, and societies provided healthcare, social insurance, and material support to workers across nearly all major American cities. These organizations quickly became an essential part of immigrant life, often forming along ethnic lines and offering assistance in every aspect: from celebrations to after-work activities, from medical care to medicine, from funeral services to union support, from orphan assistance to wedding festivities. For years, they served as a lifeline to the homeland—not just physically, but culturally, linguistically, and, perhaps most importantly, emotionally. Some acted as first points of contact for new immigrants, with longtime members men- toring newcomers, many of whom arrived with no knowl- edge of English and little idea of where to begin. Many of these associations became informal job placement offices or gathering spaces where immigrants could rebuild not just their professional lives, but their social and familial net- works as well. Over time, some of these groups shifted focus. After the passage of the Social Security Act of 1935, signed by Franklin Delano Roosevelt, which introduced unemployment, disabil- ity, and old-age benefits, many societies transitioned from their original mutual aid role to a more recreational one. Yet, their spirit of solidarity and mutual support never truly dis- appeared. Today, while many of these historical societies still hold an important legacy, they struggle to attract younger genera- tions, who now connect, meet, and socialize online rather than through traditional memberships. The form has changed, but the essence remains the same. The spirit of assistance is still alive—perhaps even stronger than before, as many who offer help today do so with purely altruistic intent, without expecting anything in return. The Los Angeles wildfires served as a powerful reminder of this enduring sense of community. Online connections became real-world friendships, neighbors became allies. In those desperate days, small moments—smiles exchanged, hands extended—spoke louder than words. Those who lost everything found not just material aid but emotional sup- port, a guiding light in the darkness. The past may have changed its shape, but the ability to rely on a caring community remains as essential as ever. Simone Schiavinato, Editor Simone Schiavinato NEWS & FEATURES TOP STORIES PEOPLE EVENTS Member of FUSIE (Federazione Unitaria Stampa Italianaall'Estero), COGITO L'Italo-Americano Please send correspondence to P.O. Box 40156 Pasadena CA 91114 www.italoamericano.org L'Italo-Americano Newspaper (a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization), www.italoamericano.org, is the largest and longest-running Italian news- paper in America, not to mention the cultural and news resource for all things Italian in the US. A bilingual newspaper which represents an historical landmark for the Italian American Communities in the West Coast and throughout the US. L'Italo-Americano benefits from subsidies by the Italian Government, Memberships and Donations intended to support and not interrupt a mission that began in 1908 to preserve and promote the Italian language and culture in the USA Periodicals postage paid at Monrovia, California 91016, and additional mailing offices. PUBLISHER Robert Barbera Grande Ufficiale EDITOR IN CHIEF Simone Schiavinato ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER Patrick Abbate EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Barbara Minafra COPY EDITOR Francesca Bezzone LOS ANGELES CONTRIBUTOR Silvia Nittoli SAN FRANCISCO CONTRIBUTOR Serena Perfetto SEATTLE CONTRIBUTOR Rita Cipalla CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mariella Radaelli, Matt Walker, Francesca Bezzone, Luca Ferrari, Stefano Carnevali, Paula Reynolds, Teresa Di Fresco Nicoletta Curradi, Generoso D'Agnese, Jessica S. Levy, Fabrizio Del Bimbo, Maria Gloria, Chuck Pecoraro, Anthony Di Renzo Serena Perfetto, Kenneth Scambray, Chiara D'Alessio, Luca Signorini, Giulia Franceschini © 2024 L'Italo-Americano Membership: One year $59 - Single copy $2.25 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to L'Italo Americano P.O. 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