Representative Tan Parker announced the successful passage of House Concurrent Resolution 144 which designates June 2nd as Italian Heritage Day in Texas. The resolution was sponsored  by Senator John Carona in the Texas Senate and was unanimously passed by both legislative bodies.

The 2nd of June of each year is the anniversary of the Festa of the Italian Republic. This marks the day in 1946 when Italy voted in a referendum to abolish the monarchy and to become a republic. Also, this day in 2011 will coincide with the 150th Year Anniversary of the Unification of Italy.