The Sons of Italy in America New Jersey Grand Lodge is a fraternal organization that serves as the state-level jurisdiction for all lodges and members of the Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA) within New Jersey. Chartered on January 16, 1911, under the authority of the Supreme Lodge of OSIA, the New Jersey Grand Lodge adheres to the constitution and by-laws of the national body and aims to promote social, charitable, civic, educational, and patriotic endeavors among Italian Americans in the state.

History

The Order Sons of Italy in America was originally founded as L’Ordine Figli d’Italia in New York City on June 22, 1905, by Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro, MD, and five fellow Italian immigrants. This organization was established during the wave of Italian migration to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dr. Sellaro envisioned uniting Italian immigrants into a cohesive fraternal society to preserve their heritage and advocate for their social and political interests.

Following this founding, the New Jersey Grand Lodge was formed as a state chapter to organize and oversee local lodges throughout New Jersey. It became a key institution for Italian Americans in the state, fostering cultural pride, community service, and mutual aid.

Mission and Activities

The Sons of Italy New Jersey Grand Lodge operates to uphold and celebrate Italian American traditions, culture, and history. It functions as part of the oldest and largest organization of Americans of Italian heritage in North America. The Grand Lodge oversees various local lodges in New Jersey, coordinating charitable initiatives, cultural events, educational programs, and civic engagement activities.

The organization’s philanthropic arm, the Sons of Italy New Jersey Foundation, founded in 1990, undertakes charitable and philanthropic work to support the Italian American community and broader society.

Organizational Structure

Operating under the Supreme Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America, the New Jersey Grand Lodge maintains jurisdiction over all lodges within the state. It acts as a governing body ensuring that local lodges comply with the constitution and by-laws established at the national level and supports the lodges in their community-focused missions.

Significance

As a prominent representative of Italian American heritage in New Jersey, the Sons of Italy in America New Jersey Grand Lodge plays a vital role in preserving ethnic identity, fostering community solidarity, and promoting social welfare among Italian Americans. It stands as part of a broader legacy initiated over a century ago to unite Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

This article summarizes the history, mission, and organizational role of the Sons of Italy in America New Jersey Grand Lodge, highlighting its place within the broader Order Sons of Italy in America and its impact on Italian American culture in New Jersey[1][3].