The Italian-American Defense League (IADL) today announced that it has formally filed an appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, challenging a recent district court decision that the organization believes undermines the rights and cultural heritage of Italian-Americans, including IADL members and Plaintiff Ralph Marcarelli.  

IADL’s attorney Norman Pattis called U.S. District Court Judge Omar A. Williams’ decision, “ludicrous.” The appeal stems from the district court’s ruling on ITALIAN AMERICAN DEFENSE LEAGUE & RALPH MARCARELLI Plaintiffs, v. CITY OF NEW HAVEN, JUSTIN ELICKER, Case Number 3:23-cv-773 (OAW), which concerns the removal of a statue of Christopher Columbus from Wooster Square, a historical marker dating back to 1892 that was erected in the aftermath of the 1891 mass lynching of Italians in New Orleans.

The IADL argues that the lower court’s decision fails to adequately consider key legal principles about standing and historical preservation laws.

“This appeal is about ensuring fairness and protecting cultural heritage,” said Matthew Guarnieri, President of the Italian-American Defense League. “We are confident that the Second Circuit will give this case the careful consideration it deserves, recognizing if the City of New Haven is allowed to destroy Italian heritage, then every American’s heritage is in jeopardy.”

The case involves Mayor Justin Elicker’s order to remove the Columbus statue on June 24, 2020 without public notice or an official vote. Elicker’s order attracted protesters, for and against the removal of the Columbus statue, to the public park creating a disparaging situation for the Italian-Americans at the protest. The IADL contends that the district court's decision ignored federal historic preservation laws: The Official Compilation of the U.S. Cultural Heritage Statutes (5th edition, 2018) states, "The Congress finds and declares that the spirit and direction of the nation are founded upon and reflected in its historic heritage;" that "the historical and cultural foundations of the Nation should be preserved as a living part of our community...;" and that "the preservation of this irreplaceable heritage is in the public interest..."  That's official policy.  The "Nation" encompasses all groups, equally, without favor of one over another.  The cultural heritage of Italian Americans is not excluded.  The removal of the statue threatened the rights and dignity of Italian-Americans, damaged the historic district, harmed Ralph Marcarelli, and favored Black Lives Matter (BLM) protesters after the George Floyd tragedy on May 25, 2020. 

The New Haven Historic District Commission did not rule on the removal of the Columbus statue.  Mayor Elicker ended police protection of the statue, which precipitated a crisis and an excuse for its removal.  The Parks Department, which is not the authority for a national register historic district, followed the mayor’s order. The due-process requirements of legal notice by the Historic District Commision, a public hearing on the removal, and the requirement that a Certificate of Appropriateness be issued were bypassed.  Too make matters worse, Mayor Elicker removed the original fence surrounding the statue and the statue's bronze dedication plaque, "A Cristoforo Colombo Gl’ Italiani di New Haven,” the signature of that early Italian community, only adding insult to the injury.  

“We firmly believe in the strength of our legal arguments and the importance of standing up for what is right,” said Matthew Guarnieri. “This appeal is a necessary step in defending the rich cultural legacy of Italian-Americans and ensuring that Italian heritage is honored and respected in public discourse and policy in accordance with federal law.”  Italian heritage is so much more than pizza and a new, generic immigration statue. 

The two June 2020 petitions which called for the removal of the Christopher Columbus statue in Wooster Square were authored by a high school student and New Haven resident.  Rhea McTiernan Huge, now an adult, and Jacob Booth parroted false claims about Columbus.  Frank Carrano, retired President of New Haven’s teacher’s union, took credit for the removal of the statue, and others politically connected to the mayor supported the decision; including: Frank Gargano, President of Saint Andrew the Apostle Society, Paul J. Criscuolo, President of St. Catello Society, Vin Mauro Jr., Democrat Town Chair, and Ellen Cupo, Alder.  Alder Anna Festa and St. Andrew’s Apostle Society Treasurer Mel Sanseverino did not actively oppose the removal of the statue.  On June 25, 2020, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro published her opinion renouncing her support for the Columbus statue. 

The IADL is calling on its members, supporters, and allies to remain engaged as the legal process continues. “This is not just a legal battle; it is a collective effort to preserve our heritage for future generations,” added Guarnieri. 

The Italian-American Defense League advocates for the rights and recognition of the Italian-American community. Through legal action, public awareness, and community engagement, the organization strives to promote understanding and respect for Italian-American history, culture, and contributions to the nation. IADL participates in solidarity sessions with the Native American Guardian’s Association to foster understanding and mutual respect by bridging cultures against cancel culture.  IADL participates in a forum called Connecticut Council of American Italian Organizations promoting Italian heritage curriculum and the celebration of Columbus Day.  You can contribute to our cause by making a donation to our GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/d247fc1d or visit iadlnow.org .