ITALIAN AMERICAN LEADERS ACROSS STATEN ISLAND ENDORSE ANDREW CUOMO FOR MAYOR OF NEW YORK CITY
Community leaders denounce Zohran Mamdani’s disrespect toward the Italian Community & stand with Cuomo’s call for unity
Staten Island, NY — Italian American leaders from across Staten Island gathered today at Casa Belvedere — The Italian Cultural Foundation — to endorse Andrew M. Cuomo for Mayor of New York City, citing his deep respect for all communities, his record of public service, and his steadfast defense of New York’s diverse cultural heritage.
“New York City’s greatest strength is its diversity and its magic is that so many cultures can occupy the same sliver of rock and live together, learn together and celebrate each other, Cuomo said. “Im a proud member of the Italian community and I’m honored to have the support of these great leaders. I will be a mayor for them and for all New Yorkers.”
Held at the iconic Casa Belvedere overlooking New York Harbor, the event underscored Staten Island’s enduring role in preserving and celebrating Italian American heritage. Leaders from civic, business, and cultural organizations expressed their support for Cuomo’s vision of a city that values both progress and tradition.
The event came amid renewed outrage over a resurfaced photo of Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani flipping off the Christopher Columbus statue and calling for its removal. Community leaders condemned Mamdani’s actions as disrespectful to generations of Italian Americans who have helped build and enrich New York City.
Gina Biancardi, President, The Italian Cultural Foundation at Casa Belvedere, said: “Governor Cuomo has always stood on principle — even when it wasn’t popular. At a time when others remain silent, he reminds us that pride in one’s heritage is not something to be ashamed of. His leadership reflects the values of respect, strength, and unity that define the Italian American spirit and the Staten Island community.”
James Paone, Vice President of Operations, Casa Belvedere, said: “What sets Governor Cuomo apart is his conviction. He doesn’t waiver when it comes to doing what’s right — especially when defending our community’s heritage. Staten Island and Italian Americans across this city know they have a leader in Andrew Cuomo who will stand up, speak out, and bring people together.”
John Viola, Co-Founder, Italian American Future Leaders, said: “Governor Cuomo understands that New York’s greatness lies in its diversity and shared history. When others seek to divide, he brings us together — Italian Americans, immigrants, and families from every background. That’s the kind of leadership New York City needs again: unifying, unapologetic, and rooted in respect for every community.”
Cesare Perfetto, President, Perfetto Contracting Co. Inc., said: “Andrew Cuomo has never backed down from a fight for what’s right. When our culture and history are attacked, he stands shoulder to shoulder with us — not because it’s politically convenient, but because it’s who he is. His strength, conviction, and loyalty to New Yorkers are unmatched.”
Madeline DeAmicis, Partner, Lighting Design Associates, said: “In moments when our community felt disrespected and unseen, Governor Cuomo stood up. That’s what leadership looks like — defending all New Yorkers, including the Italian American community, with courage and dignity. He reminds us that respect for one group uplifts all groups.”
Philip A. Guarnieri, CEO, Empire State Bank, said: “Governor Cuomo represents the values Staten Island holds dear: faith, family, and fairness. His conviction never wavers, and his commitment to uniting New Yorkers from all walks of life is what gives this city its strength. We’re proud to stand with him.”
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