The Highland Park Sister Cities Foundation was deeply honored to welcome guests from our Sister City, Modena, Italy, for a meaningful and historic visit.
Led by Don Stefano Violi, Director of Città dei Ragazzi (Boys’ Town of Northern Italy), the delegation came to Highland Park on a pilgrimage of gratitude, returning to the community that gave birth to Don Sante Bartolai, an extraordinary priest, humanitarian, and benefactor whose life continues to inspire generations.
Born in Highland Park in 1917, Don Sante was orphaned at a young age and sent to northern Italy, where he was raised by his aunt and later entered the seminary. Ordained in 1942, his unwavering values led him to join the Modena Underground Movement during World War II. He was captured by Fascists, imprisoned by the Nazis, and sent to Dachau and later Mauthausen concentration camps, where he endured unimaginable suffering.
Liberated in 1945, Don Sante recovered his health and authored his memoir, “Da Fossoli a Mauthausen.” Soon after, he founded Città dei Ragazzi, dedicated to education, faith, and opportunity for young people. For risking his life to save Jews during the Holocaust, he is honored at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC as a Righteous Gentile.
When Highland Park and Modena became Sister Cities, this profound connection was unknown. Today, that bond is deeper than ever, rooted in the legacy of a remarkable man who exemplified courage, compassion, and humanity at its best.
During their visit, Don Stefano co-officiated a special Mass with Father Hernan Cuevas, joined by Bishop Timothy O’Malley, in tribute to Don Sante Bartolai. The delegation was later welcomed at City Hall by Mayor Nancy Rotering and the City Council. Mayor Rotering issued a proclamation declaring January 12 as Don Sante Bartolai Day, while State Senator Julie Morrison presented each guest with a state pin and flag.
The visit also included a welcome dinner at the Highwood Bocce Club and a meeting with Consul General Mario Bartoli at the Italian Consulate.
This unforgettable visit reminds us that the concept of Sister Cities is about more than geography; it’s are about shared history, shared values, and enduring human connections.
