First Lady Jill Biden's Heritage Celebrations in Gesso, Italy

Introduction to First Lady Jill Biden's Visit to Gesso, Italy

On December 4, 2024, First Lady Jill Biden made a memorable visit to Gesso, Italy, celebrating her Italian heritage with heartfelt reverence and gratitude. The first Italian American First Lady's journey to her ancestral hometown showcased her deep connection to her roots and emphasized the lasting impact of her ancestors' journey to the United States.

Welcoming Speech and Appreciation

During her remarks as prepared for delivery in her ancestral hometown, Mrs. Biden started with a warm welcome:

"Buongiorno! Thank you, Mr. Mayor, for a warmer welcome than I could have imagined. I am also grateful to Ms. Prefect Di Stani and to President Schifani for their leadership. Ambassador Markell Jack, Carla, thank you for your hospitality, and thank you, Consul General Roberts-Pounds Tracy, for your service in Naples. Dr. Mario Sarica, thank you for researching my family's history and capturing it in your wonderful book."

She highlighted the warmth and hospitality of the Italian community, underscoring the special relationship between Italy and the United States and the significant role played by the Italian American community in the U.S.

Celebrating Roots and Italian Values

First Lady Biden's speech was a poignant reflection on the values that shaped her ancestors and continue to influence her today. She pointed out the enduring importance of loyalty, hard work, and the belief in the "always-room-for-one-more-seat-at-the-table" spirit.

"My great-grandparents, Gaetano and Conchetta Giacoppa, walked the narrow streets of Gesso, talked with their neighbors, and watched the stars wander out at night. The everyday rhythms of life shaped Italian values such as loyalty, hard work, and the belief that there's always room for one more seat at the table."

She mentioned the journey her great-grandparents made to the United States, emphasizing the promise of new opportunities and a better future. The values that her ancestors brought with them to America still resonate today, reflecting the strength and resilience of Italian American communities.

Substantive Contributions and Community Engagement

First Lady Biden's visit was also a testament to her ongoing efforts to celebrate and honor the vibrant Italian American community. She highlighted her role in bringing together the broader community to celebrate their culture and sustain their traditions.

"As First Lady, I’ve brought the vibrant Italian American community together to celebrate our culture and sustain our traditions. I’ve even had the opportunity to serve gnocchi and braciole in the White House! And the values of loyalty, hard work, and that spirit of generosity that my great-grandparents brought with them to America still live on today."

She further engaged with the community by introducing a gift: a European Holly tree, which symbolizes the enduring bond between Gesso and the United States. The tree, closely related to the American Holly from her home state of Delaware, serves as a tangible reminder of the historical and cultural connections between the two countries.

Gratitude and Future Outlook

Mrs. Biden's speech concluded with heartfelt gratitude and a forward-looking vision. She expressed her feelings of warmth and homecoming and acknowledged the legacy of her great-grandparents through the gathered community.

"I am so grateful to be here in Gesso, and as I look out at this beautiful place and all of you, I feel the warmth of home. Because of your kindness and your joyful welcome, I will always remember and cherish this day."

She ended her remarks with a dedication to the enduring light that her ancestors brought to the United States and the hope that their descendants will remain true to their roots.

Conclusion

The First Lady's visit to Gesso, Italy, highlighted the deep connection between her ancestral hometown and her current role as First Lady of the United States. It was a celebration of heritage, culture, and community, showcasing the legacy of Italian American values and the enduring bond between Italy and the United States.