The National Italian American Foundation and the Italian Sons and Daughters of America are excited to present the top three grant finalists for The Russo Brothers Italian American Film Forum, an initiative to fund films depicting and exploring the Italian American experience for the benefit of future generations. experience for the benefit of future generations. This exciting event will be a part of NIAF’s 47th Anniversay Gala Weekend in Washington D.C.

October 29, 9 am, Omni Shore Hotel. This event is FREE and open to the public! Join us in viewing all three film projects and a Q&A with the filmmakers after the showing, moderated by Taylor Taglianetti, Founder and President of the National Organization of Italian Americans in Film and Television. The winner will be announced during the gala dinner.

Leaving the Factory by Alessia Crucitelli and Andrew Levay, focuses on the story of the mistreatment of Italian immigrant women factory workers, and their struggle to overcome oppression.

Rossi & Company by Agata De Santis, explores the history of the 112-year-old Italian American gift shop in NYC’s Little Italy, and the struggle its 71-year-old proprietor is having to keep its storied doors open.

Defending the Peninsula by Charles Vincent Sabba, investigates how Italian Americans in law enforcement work with Italian law enforcement to protect the artistic and cultural patrimony of Italy’s 70% share of the world’s great art.