Since 1989, October has been recognized as Italian American Heritage and Culture Month in the U.S., stemming from a proclamation issued by President George Bush. The month was established to “celebrate the rich ethnic heritage of Italian-Americans and the many contributions they have made to American culture.”

Yet, despite this tradition, now in its fourth decade, large corporations continue to ignore it. This includes the National Football League, the preeminent professional sports league in the U.S., and a sport enjoyed, if not outright cherished and adored, by millions of Italian Americans.