Chicago’s Columbus Day Parade celebrates Italian heritage and Native American unity

CHICAGO — Thousands of Chicagoans gathered in the Loop on Monday for the city’s 72nd annual Columbus Day parade.

The celebration of Italian American heritage featured floats, marching bands, singers, and dancers descending State Street. The parade’s theme this year was “Bridging gaps, celebrating our heritage, and protecting our culture.”

Watching the festivities on Monday was out-of-towner Bella Raffin.

“I’m not from here, so this is like a new thing for me to see all the people and all the culture going on,” she said. “It’s really fun.”

Attendee Francesca Delmedico echoed Raffin’s sentiments.

“It’s important to know our culture better,” she said.

Parade-goer Karen D’Amato said the energy Monday was great.

“I will continue to get my family to come and celebrate this every year,” she told WGN News.

For this year’s event, the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans collaborated with the Native American Guardians Association to foster mutual respect and unity between the two ethnic groups. Although today has been historically known as Columbus Day, it is also recognized as Indigenous People’s Day.

In recognition, tribal communities showcased their rich cultural tradition through lively song and dance.

“I think that was something different to bring to this dynamic Columbus Day celebration,” D’Amato said. “I think everyone’s supportive of it.”

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