Independence Day Message from US Consul General in Milan, Douglass Benning

As we celebrate the Fourth of July this year, I invite members of the Easy Milano community to reflect on the enduring friendship between the United States and Italy—a bond built on shared values, mutual respect, and a deep commitment to democracyy and individual freedom.  Today, we honor the ideals that have shaped our nation and continue to inspire people around the world.

This year’s Independence Day is particularly special, as it marks the one-year countdown to “America 250″—the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Over the next year, we will celebrate this historic milestone with events that highlight the principles of liberty and equality that remain at the heart of the American story.

Here in Milan, the U.S. Consulate General is gearing up for an exciting year ahead.  As we look forward to the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, we will host a series of public events to showcase the best of American culture, sports, and innovation.  I invite you to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn to stay up to date on all the activities and opportunities to participate.

One event I’m particularly excited about is just around the corner!  On July 12, we’re co-hosting “Take Me Out To the Ball Game” at the Centro Sportivo J.F. Kennedy, in partnership with Baseball Softball Milano 1946.  This family-friendly event will feature a free MLB PLAYBALL workshop for kids aged 6-12, where they can learn the fundamentals of baseball and softball in a fun and engaging environment; register here.  Stick around for a burger and to watch the slow-pitch softball friendly, where members of Milan’s diplomatic community will team up with Milano 1946 players and legends for a fun and unforgettable friendly.  Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the sport, it’s a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate community and the return of baseball and softball as Olympic sports in the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.

As we commemorate this Fourth of July, let us also celebrate the ties that unite us as Americans and as friends of Italy.  I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events and wish you all a joyful and safe Independence Day!

Warm regards,

Douglass Benning
U.S. Consul General, Milan

Photo: At the US Consulate July 4th Celebration 2025 at the Rotonda della Besana in Milan, Attilio Fontana, President of Lombardy Region; Anna Scavuzzo, Vice Mayor of Milan; Douglass Benning, US Consul General in Milan; Tilman Fertitta, United States Ambassador to Italy