Queen of Columbus Day(Tribute to Louise De Stefano)

Italians like Louise De Stefano loved America, took pride in their heritage, and celebrated Columbus Day. World War II was a difficult time for Italian Americans. Beginning on December 8, 1941, over 600,000 Italian-Americans were labeled “enemy aliens” and placed under strict government surveillance. On Columbus Day 1942, U.S. Attorney General Francis Biddle delivered a historic speech from Carnegie Hall, “Americans of Italian Origin,” acknowledging their loyalty and contributions to the nation.