Italian American Civil Rights League Champions Heritage and Local Support
Courtesy Coach Jon Kablack
From left to right: Isaiah Kablack ’16 (Assistant Head Coach), Jon Kablack (Head Coach), Michael Crispi, Gerard Marrone, and Christopher Gotlieb (Board Members and Founders of the Italian American Civil Rights League), with Damien Peterson and Gavin Hugien (Martin Luther Basketball Starters and Co-Captains) kneeling.
MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
In a show of community support, the Italian American Civil Rights League has presented a generous donation to the Martin Luther School basketball team, marking a notable partnership aimed at bolstering local youth sports. The donation, intended to enhance the basketball program’s resources, underscores the club’s commitment to community engagement and support for educational initiatives.
Board Members and Founders of the Italian American Civil Rights League, Gerard Marrone, Michael Crispi and Christopher Gotlieb spearheaded the partnership with the school.
The Italian American Civil Rights League (IACRL) has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Italian American heritage while addressing contemporary issues of discrimination. Established in 1970, the organization has a long history of advocating for Italian Americans who face unjust stereotypes and biases. Originally founded to counteract negative portrayals, such as organized crime associations, the IACRL continues to address modern challenges faced by Italian Americans.
Gerard Marrone highlighted the League’s ongoing mission to honor Italian traditions and family values while combating anti-Italian discrimination.
“The Italian American Civil Rights League has been around since 1970, and it’s the premier, most nationally known organization that fights and advocates for the rights of Italian Americans who face discrimination,” Marrone said.
The organization is currently focused on defending Columbus Day, which it views as a symbol of Italian American heritage rather than a historical figure. Marrone emphasized the importance of this holiday to the Italian American community, linking it to the broader narrative of immigrants building and contributing to the nation.
“In today’s day and age, Italian Americans face different types of discrimination and different types of businesses where they need an advocate,” Marrone said. That’s what we’re doing.”
The IACRL donated $2,000 to the Martin Luther School basketball team, a gesture that underscores its commitment to local initiatives. Marrone, who grew up in the area, noted the personal connection to Martin Luther School and the positive impact of supporting local programs.
“I grew up in Ridgewood, and Martin Luther High School has always been a great place in my neighborhood,” Marrone said. “Meeting Coach John and finding a fit to help out was a natural step for us.”
Looking ahead, the IACRL plans to expand its support for community organizations and address broader issues of discrimination. The League will host its first annual membership drive and fundraiser on October 2, aiming to engage more supporters and bolster its efforts. Membership options range from $50 to $1,000, reflecting various levels of involvement and support, to get involved please visit iacrl.org.
“We want to send the message of equality and alliance,” Marrone said. “We align with any group that experiences discrimination and advocate for their causes as well.”
Jon Kablack, the head coach of the Martin Luther School basketball team, expressed his appreciation for the club’s contribution.
“This helps out a lot because the Martin Luther basketball team comes from a very small parochial school, sixth grade through 12th grade, and we only have about 200 kids. That being said, very limited on the budget.” Kablack said.
Martin Luther School, a small parochial institution serving grades 6 through 12, has faced financial constraints that have limited opportunities for its athletes.
The Italian American Heritage Club, newly revitalized to focus on community outreach, is making its first major impact with this donation. The club’s leader, Gerard Marrone, initiated the partnership with Kablack to support local youth and improve their athletic experiences.
Courtesy Coach Jon Kablack
The Italian American Civil Rights League donated $2,000 to the Martin Luther School basketball team, highlighting its commitment to both Italian American heritage and local youth sports.
Kablack, who is entering his 10th season as a basketball coach and fourth as varsity coach, has been proactive in fundraising to provide his players with opportunities often available only at larger programs. Last year, he arranged for the team to take an overnight trip to his alma mater, covering all costs through his fundraising efforts.
This donation will support continued initiatives such as team travel, new uniforms, and special events, furthering Kablack’s mission to provide his players with meaningful high school basketball experiences. Beyond athletics, Kablack emphasizes the importance of academic achievement, striving to ensure that his players balance their sports commitments with educational success.
“For me as a coach, I stress on education and how education has to come first,” Kablack said. “When I talk to somebody or somebody inquires about playing basketball, it’s one of the first questions I ask. What’s your grades like? Because it does neither of us any good if you’re failing classes. My big goal , both academically and athletically, is to get the child to the next level, and ultimately, that goal of college.”
The partnership will also feature the Italian American Heritage Club’s name prominently in the team’s promotional materials, including banners and social media, as a gesture of gratitude for their support. The collaboration highlights the club’s renewed focus on contributing positively to the community and supporting youth development.
To make a generous donation and support the Martin Luther School Basketball team, please visit tinyurl.com/MartinLutherTeam.
