Conversation with Giovanna Aquia Blatterman and ACIM
February 16, 2023
The students had an amazing experience at Cafe Gia’s Restaurant in Little Italy today. We were invited to lunch by the ACIM of Maryland- American Citizens for Italian Matters and were joined by members and longtime friends of the school Jean Gallo and Valerie Meola.
While enjoying a delicious meal, Giovanna Aquia Blatterman shared stories with us about her journey with her family from Sicily through Ellis Island to Baltimore. She talked about the challenges her family faced and the successes they have had while staying rooted in Baltimore’s Little Italy including the founding of Cafe Gia’s. Giovanna also shared about the multicultural heritage of Sicilians and its ties to people and cultures throughout Africa and Europe.
Several students who were the first generation of their family to be born in this country shared their common experiences and all shared about why they chose The Community School.
We are thankful for the enduring support that our school gets from the Italian Community who is always eager to reach back and give a hand up to those trying to improve their lives. Today, we are especially thankful for Jean, Val and the members of ACIM for enabling this wonderful experience and to Giovanna for her delicious food, kind hospitality and generous sharing of stories.