More than 500 people participated in the tribute to the Italian families who contributed to the development of Londrina. The initiative, carried out by the Legislative Assembly of Paraná, sought to recognize immigrants and their descendants who arrived in the region up to the 1960s.
The ceremony took place last Friday (23) evening. The event, conceived by deputy Tercilio Turini (MDB), celebrated the performance of Italian community in the consolidation of the second largest city in Paraná. The meeting brought together around 250 families who registered to receive the Honorable Mention from ALEP.
The tribute highlighted gratitude for the work in building the municipality. According to the text of the tribute, the Italians brought culture and customs that represent a milestone in the history of Paraná. The event had the support of institutions such as the Historical Museum of UEL and the I Bravissimi Association, and was held at the OAB headquarters (Brazilian Bar Association) in Londrina.
Italians formed the largest foreign ethnic group during the colonization of Londrina, with 611 families registered in the initial period. Representative Tercilio Turini highlighted that these pioneers faced adversity in various activities, especially in coffee farming and manual labor.
The celebration is also part of the 150th anniversary of Italian immigration to Brazil. Turini, who is the grandson of immigrants, stated that it is fundamental to reclaim the history of overcoming challenges and integrating the community. He expressed gratitude for the pioneers' role in the progress of Northern Paraná.
The ceremony's table was attended by several local authorities. Federal Deputy Luiz Carlos Hauly and Vice-Mayor Junior Santos Rosa participated. Also present were the Honorary Vice-Consul of Italy, Bruno Veronesi, and the Rector of UEL, Marta Favaro.
