brionon Is this debate getting you the answers you really deserve ?
If you as an proud Italian found this remark offensive, lodge a complaint at your local Police station.
Any racist remark can be reported, let the Police and the CPS sort this matter out.
I accepted the fact wherever I was in the World that I was different, and an outsider, I didn't spit my dummy out or act like a child because somebody said something I didn't like.
I have Black and Asian friends and work associates who tell me that they endure racist remarks on a regular basis.
You will never change peoples attitudes and perceptions.
Brush yourself off, be a man, and forget about this stupid remark, or take the other option and get the Police involved.