We have posted our goals here in the past, but perhaps they were not entirely clear. Our goals are very multi-faceted, so there is no definite answer to what our goals are when they are laid out in paragraphs.
For example, we may be interested in looking into the Ambrosian Rite of Catholicism, as it is Lombardian in origin, and certainly a part of our culture. However, that would really belong in the greater scheme of looking into all things Lombardian, and not because we all need to become Ambrosians.
Our chief goals could be herded into three parts. Within each part, there is more of a maze of smaller items that we may want to look into at some point. However, the following are our three main long-term goals.
1) Lombardian-American Society: To develop an association, voice, and organizational structure for those of Lombardian heritage in the United States. The number of people of Lombardian origin in this country is significant enough to justify a "Lombardian-American" cultural identity. There should be a headquarters of some type. A cultural center, probably located somewhere in the Great Lakes region, which would have at least several paid positions. A simple radio studio would be a must, as the opportunity for a community podcast over the internet is a possibility which cannot be passed up. A book and media library in order to conduct research into our heritage, especially our history on this continent, would be a must as well. There is a Tuscan-American Association, which has entirely beaten us to the punch in this area. Naturally we would look to develop local associations in different states as part of this plan. This is a goal even more important than our Camunian plan below.
2) Camonica Club of North America: With the number of people of Camunian ancestry being much smaller than the already small number of people of Lombardian ancestry, it would only make sense to combine all of us who live anywhere on this continent. Camunian heritage means something a little different than the Lombardian whole. In this way, it is almost like an extended family concept. One goal would be just simply to promote our heritage to our kindred. A longer range goal would be to form some type of milieu in every state and province. That could be just one person to start with. In other words, a "Camonica Club of Michigan," a "Camonica Club of Washington," or a "Camonica Club of Ontario." Perhaps one of those "Italians working abroad," who may live in Mexico City or someplace, could be a representative there. We don't have to think of ourselves as being limited by distance. Kindred who live in Alaska or Panama could see each other as distant family.
3) Temple of Cern: This is one area which definitely needs definition. The Camonica Valley has, for a long time, been considered very Catholic. Of that, there is no question. Our Camunian families who migrated to this continent would very likely have been strongly Roman Catholic. However, Greek-Americans are very solidly Orthodox Christians, but have no problem with their pagan past. That pagan past is not brushed under the rug. And remember, the pagan period of Greece was a very long time ago; while our pagan past flourished up to roughly four centuries ago. I mean, lets face it, the entire Italian peninsula was solidly Catholic.... except us! THINK ABOUT THAT!! Our ancestors were not merely a different denomination of Christianity, therefore subject to persecution, but many were pagans. Yes, it's true. There must be something a little different about us, perhaps something in our collective conscience. I think it is our cultural imperative to revive at least an interest in our old Cernic tradition.
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