[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 158 (Thursday, September 29, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S5537]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING UNICO NATIONAL

 Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the 100th 
anniversary of UNICO National, founded in Waterbury, CT, by Dr. Anthony 
P. Vastola and 15 other proud Italian-Americans. UNICO began as a small 
service organization, helping people in the greater Waterbury area gain 
access to higher education through scholarships, promoting Italian 
heritage, and contributing to charities throughout the State.
  In the century since its inception, UNICO has grown into the largest 
Italian-American service organization in the United States. UNICO 
started as a way to combat anti-Italian prejudice and discrimination, 
showing non-Italian Americans that their culture was founded in 
philanthropy, civic engagement, and charity. As our Nation's Italian-
American population grew, so, too, did the membership of UNICO and its 
spirit of generosity.
  While UNICO was founded in Connecticut, its reach stretches far past 
our State's borders. When an earthquake ravaged parts of Italy, UNICO 
members raised thousands of dollars to build shelters for those 
affected. After the attacks on September 11, 2001, UNICO once again 
rose to the occasion by supporting victims' relief funds and 
restaurants around Ground Zero. By funding research to help find cures 
for diseases like Cooley's anemia and cancer and giving to institutions 
like the University of Connecticut and Seton Hall University, UNICO 
ensures that future generation will also benefit from its members' 
selflessness. The endowed chairs of modern Italian history and Italian 
studies at these schools, help teach students about Italian heritage, 
and work to advance UNICO's mission of eliminating discrimination.
  The impact this organization has had on communities is immeasurable. 
For 100 years, UNICO has been a model of service towards others. I am 
proud and grateful for its work and its deep roots in Waterbury. I 
can't wait to see what more the members of UNICO accomplish as they 
continue their pursuit to make our world a better place.

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