From immigrants to politicians: Italians in public service in the Pacific Northwest
A short collection of first- and second-generation Italian immigrants who took their turn as public servants
The misty shores and evergreen forests of the Pacific Northwest, stretching from Washington State to British Columbia, might seem a world away from the sun-drenched vineyards of Italy. Yet, for many Italians, this region became a new home, offering a chance to build a life filled with opportunity and challenge. Their story is one of resilience, hard work, and a deep love for their adopted land that in some cases also translated into public service.
A Legacy of Political Engagement
As Italian communities thrived, they began to have a political voice, especially from the 1920s to the 1940s. This period coincided with the rise of Fascism in Italy and Americanism in the United States—two opposing ideologies that shaped their political engagement.
At the same time, Italian immigrants became active in labor unions, fighting for better working conditions and fair treatment. During the 1930s, Italian-American ethnic associations, news media, and even the Italian state worked to “Italianize” the community. They succeeded in organizing politically and cooperating with each other. They also entered local politics, ensuring their communities had a say in their future.
Here are just a few Italian immigrants who served in public office in the Pacific Northwest:
Born in Germany to Italian-Jewish parents who had fled the Nazis, Vera Katz later emigrated to the United States and from 1993 to 2005, she served as the 49th Mayor of Portland, Oregon. From 1985 to 1990, she was the first woman to serve as Speaker of the Orego House of Representatives.
Dino John Rossi (1959-) is an American businessman and politician who served as a member of the Washington State Senate. Rossi ran for the position of Governor of Washington in 2004 and 2008. While he won the popular vote in the 2004 election, the final result was overturned after a recount. Rossi ran for the U.S. House of Representatives from Washington's 8th congressional district in 2010 but was unsuccessful. He is also former Chair of the Washington State Special Olympics.
James Scavotto, was elected to the Seattle city council in 1930, where he served for 20 years, and for a short time in 1938, he was Acting Mayor. As part of a larger WPA park project in Rainier Valley, he managed to get a shelterhouse erected plus a ballfield and tennis courts.
In 1932, Palmiro L. Rosaia, Seattle Park Board member, together with James Scavotto, were instrumental in filling a city ravine into Colman Playground, a park near the Atlantic Street Community Club, a resource that was well-frequented by Italian and other immigrants.
In 1957, Albert Rosellini made history by becoming the first Italian-American to hold a statewide-elected office in Washington state. He was the state’s 15th governor and served until 1965.
Phil Fortunato was appointed the 31st District State Senator in 2017, the 31st District State Representative elected in 2016, and the 47th District State Representative from 1998-2000. A longtime Sons of Italy member and a Knights of Columbus-4th degree, he is the proud father of 5 children, 3 of whom are decorated US Marines.
In 2021, Bonita Zarrillo, became the Member of Parliament for Port Moody (a suburb of Vancouver) in British Columbia while Frank Caputo was the representative for the Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo constituency.
This tradition of civic participation continues today, with many Italian Americans also serving as consuls. These men and women promote the interests of the Italian Government regarding trade, the needs of Italian citizens residing in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington states, and all American citizens with associated consular needs pertaining to Italy.
Ron Gambassi is the consul in Boise for the state of Idaho
Elisabetta Valentini in Seattle for the state of Washington
Vytas Babusis in Lake Oswego for the state of Oregon
These prominent figures demonstrate the enduring impact of Italian Americans in the political landscape.
A Lasting Impact
The story of Italians in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia is one of triumph over adversity. They came as immigrants seeking a better life and, through hard work and perseverance, left a lasting impression on the region, inclusive of their significant public service.
Further Exploration:
This blog post highlights a few examples, but the stories of Italian immigrants in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia are numerous and diverse. If any reader of this Substack knows of other Italian immigrants who served at the local or regional level, please let me know in the comments below. I would be thrilled if this post becomes dynamic and is continually updated.
In my recently published book, ITALIANS IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST (Arcadia Publishing 2023), you can find additional information about former WA State Governor Albert Rosellini and Peter Picardi, the first known Italian immigrant to register to vote in Seattle in 1892.
Order now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powell’s, and Bookshop.org.