Italian Americans are being asked to urge their Congressmen to co-sponsor and to support two resolutions honoring Galileo and 16th century architect Andrea Palladio. Washington, D.C. attorney Joe Grano noted that 2008 was the 500th anniversary of the birth of the influential Italian architect. “His influence can be seen in the architecture of Europe, England and the United States, including the White House and the U.S. Capitol.” This year is the 400th anniversary of the first use of the telescope for astronomical observation. “With that act, Galileo literally and figuratively changed the way we see the universe,” said Grano. This anniversary is so significant that the United Nations has declared 2009 the International Year of Astronomy.”

In 2008, Bill Pascrell, Jr., Representative of New Jersey and co-chair of the Italian American Delegation to Congress, introduced a resolution to honor Palladio. But the Congressional term ended before it the resolution could be voted on. According to Grano, Mr. Pascrell would like to reintroduce the resolution, but this time with 50 co-sponsors to insure a quick vote in the House. And Representative Patrick J. Tiberi of Ohio, the other co-chair of the delegation, would like to introduce a resolution honoring Galileo’s historic scientific achievements, also with 50 co-sponsors.

These two Italian American representatives are working together to get the same cosponsors for both resolutions.

Read the proposed Galileo Resolution

Read the 2008 Palladio Resolution