LI Rep Tom Suozzi Takes Gov Hochul to Task for Firing of Italian-American Director

Edited by: TJVNews.com

Seems like political strife is heating up as the 2022 New York State governor’s race is seeing others throw their hats in the proverbial ring for the top job in Albany.

The NY Post reported that one such person who may be announcing their run for the executive seat in Albany is Long Island Congressman, Tom Suozzi. A Democrat, who not only represents parts of Long Island but also parts of Queens, Suozzi reacted angrily to the termination of the state’s director of Italian-American Affair by Governor Kathy Hochul.

Suozzi sent a critical missive to Hochul, who fired Dolores Alfieri, the popular Italian-American liaison as well as an appointee of Hochul’s predecessor, Andrew Cuomo.

According to the Post report, Suozzi said: “Members of the Italian-American community in New York have contacted me regarding your recent firing of Dolores Alfieri as state director for Italian-American Affairs. As a former Mayor and County Executive, I recognize your authority to make personnel decisions and to place people of your choosing in important positions. My experience has taught me however, that it is often helpful to consult with the constituency most affected by your decisions. In this case, the Italian -American community believes this is now the second time in the last month they have felt blind-sided by your actions.

Being of Italian-American heritage himself and having lifelong ties to the community, Suozzi has said that others who advocate for the rights of Italian citizens of America are livid over Governor Hochul’s signing of a proclamation naming October 11th as “Indigenous People’s Day.” The Post reported that the proclamation is perceived as a slight against Italian Americans who traditionally celebrate Columbus Day. This year’s parade saw Hochul participating as a marcher.

On this issue, Suozzi said, “as you know, that was not well received by the Italian-American community. The symbolism of Columbus Day is deeply personal for many Italian-Americans, including myself.”

In his scathing letter, Suozzi also inquired as to whether Hochul had any plans of filling the position of director of Italian-American Affairs.with an appointee of her choosing or if the position will be shelved.

Suozzi queried: “If not, do you plan to consult with Italian-American civic and cultural organizations on finding a replacement?”

He added that, “I know that you face many difficult challenges, but I hope you agree with me that seeking advice and consul from the vast and vibrant Italian-American community on issues of importance to them is a priority that should not be overlooked.”

The Post reported that offering a response to Suozzi’s letter was Hochul spokesman, Avi Small. He said, “Governor Hochul has always been a steadfast supporter of Italian Americans and will continue to stand with this community throughout her administration.”

One prominent Italian-American leader defended Hochul, according to the Post.

Carlo Scissura, chairman of the Federation of Italian American Organizations in Brooklyn, and head of the New York Building Trades Congress said, “Gov. Hochul has a right to bring in her own team. I have no issue with that. Come on. Let’s move on from this. There are bigger issues to deal with.