It was during the 1920’s when the United States trial of Italian immigrants Ferdinando Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti was the hot and contentious news of the day. History reveals that whether innocent or guilty of the crimes they were charged with, these young immigrant men were treated to a prejudicial and unfair trial. The ordeal of Sacco and Vanzetti came to symbolize the bigotry and intolerance directed at immigrants and dissenters in America, and millions of people in the U.S. and around the world protested on their behalf. Nearly eighty years later, the story continues to have great resonance, as America once again grapples with issues of civil liberties and the rights of immigrants

In 2007, a documentary film by Peter Miller, won the prize for the best historical film of the year from the American Historical Association.  Come and see a free screening of this riveting and important documentary, cosponsored by Lodge Camelia-Colombo, Order Sons and Daughters of Italy and the Klamath County Library.  The film is highlighted by actors Tony Shalhoub and John Turturro reading the prison writings of Sacco and Vanzetti and features interviews with Arlo Guthrie, Studs Terkel and Howard Zinn.  

The ordeal of Sacco and Vanzetti came to symbolize the bigotry and intolerance directed at immigrants and dissenters in America, and millions of people in the U.S. and around the world

On Sunday May 4, the free matinee starts at 2 pm and viewers will also be treated to popcorn, soda and snacks. The film is not rated and runs for 82 minutes. A display of recent purchases featuring Italian culture, made possible by a generous donation from Lodge Camelia Colombo, will also be on hand for viewing and check-out.  The library is located at 126 South Third Street.  If more information is needed, call the Reference line at 882-8897.

The ordeal of Sacco and Vanzetti came to symbolize the bigotry and intolerance directed at immigrants and dissenters in America, and millions of people in the U.S. and around the world protested on their behalf.  Nearly eighty years later, the story continues to have great resonance, as America once again grapples with issues of civil liberties and the rights of immigrants.