calabria
emigrants association
It was born so that Calabria would forever affectionately remember those who
had to leave their land, as early as the 1880's, to find work and settle in
other provinces within Italy, in European countries, in the distant Americas,
and on other Continents.
It was born to acknowledge these "doc" calabresi who have kept alive
in their heart fondest memories of their native land and faithfully passed them
on to their children and grandchildren with tenderness and nostalgia.
"Heritage Calabria" represents a bridge between the land of Calabria
and her children abroad.
The story of emigration is one of shining hope, of tragedies and blood, of affection,
passion, dreams and longings. Emigration is part of the culture of the calabresi
who have successfully exported their genius, their capacity to endure and sacrifice
in order to realize impossible dreams and provide assistance for their loved
ones. Thanks to emigration, Calabria has been able to develop both at the cultural
and social level, improving lifestyles and opportunities. Thanks to emigration,
families have been able to raise their standard of living and acquire knowledge.
Therefore, keeping in mind the importance of both emigrants and emigration,
"Heritage Calabria" would like to, in whatever way, strengthen ties
will all calabresi.
Calabria is a wonderful place of great natural and historical treasures. It
is the land of the sun, of the sea and of dense mountains that dare reach for
the sky. It is home of friendship and everlasting values.
The Association, with the emigrants' participation, plans to make use of this
available patrimony and finally through the exchange of culture, knowledge and
experience, rediscover Calabria as an important resource.
Calabresi abroad have succeeded and excelled as laborers, artisans, intellectuals,
executives and entrepreneurs, which leaves us wondering why the talent of so
many has ended up elsewhere outside Calabria.
Our region's long and rich history, especially in the Nineteen hundreds, has
suffered the effects of a distracted national public administration, voluntarly
incapable of investing in Calabria, failing to employ and engage all its resources,
human, natural and cultural. It is the emigrant's wealth of experience gained
in other economic, political and cultural places of residence that can facilitate
the desperately needed change of direction.
The time for a necessary concrete and effective redemption is here. It is necessary
to plan for development starting at the associative level, born by the willingness
to commit and collectively transform a mentality rooted in surrender and subjugation.
If Calabria is to effectively compete and stay within Europe it must take the
road of enterprise and productive activities.
"Heritage Calabria" wants to move in this direction through exchanges
and dialogue with emigrants, through projects for their return, promote exchanges
with immigrants and take actions, which include targeted investments and concentration
of energies.
All calabresi are called to work together, with heart and mind.
The Founders
The Executive Committee