On behalf of its hundreds of thousands of family members in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, the Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA), the oldest and largest organization representing Americans of Italian heritage, deeply mourns the passing of United States Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.

 

OSIA National President Daniel J. Longo of Maryland calls Scalia a "shining example of the very best the Italian American community has to offer, highlighting a brilliant career in public service and jurisprudence." Justice Scalia was recognized by the Sons of Italy Foundation^® (SIF) in 1991 for being that shining example, receiving the SIF's highest honor, the National Education & Leadership Award.

 

OSIA National Executive Director Dr. Philip R. Piccigallo, who knew Justice Scalia for more than a quarter century, states that, "whether one agreed or disagreed with his strong legal and philosophical positions, it was impossible not to recognize Justice Scalia's intellectual acuity, command of prose, forceful impact on American law, the legal system and culture, and the historical importance as the first Italian American appointed to the Supreme Court in 1986." Piccigallo adds, "moreover, virtually everyone respected and enjoyed Justice Scalia's company, irrepressible wit, and sense of humor."

 

OSIA extends its deepest condolences to Justice Scalia's devoted wife, Maureen, his nine children, and more than two dozen grandchildren. His indelible place in American history and jurisprudence is clear and firm.