The powerful accounts in this anthology document the hardships, the challenges, and ultimately, the accomplishments of Italian immigrants as they worked hard to build their new lives in Canada. These honest accounts reveal great insight into human nature and the immigrant experience. Also documented are what first generation Canadians valued and internalized most from their immigrant parents and grandparents. This anthology serves as a tribute to the resourcefulness of the Italian Canadian spirit from coast to coast. Collected over the past 13 years, the powerful personal, family and community accounts in this anthology acknowledge the perseverance of Italian immigrants and the contributions they have made to help transform Canada into a more civil, inclusive and economically prosperous "land of immigrants". As proud Canadians, it is imperative that we celebrate the rich multicultural mosaic we are building together. Since these accounts represent thousands of very similar experiences, it is intended that they become a valued part of Canadian history.