Lampedusa is not only the island of crystal clear waters and postcard beaches: for years it has also been one of the first doors of Europe for thousands of people fleeing wars, hunger and persecutions. Here the word “welcome” has assumed a meaning that goes far beyond solidarity, transforming itself into a daily practice, a spontaneous gesture that marks the life of the island – now known as the door of Europe – and its inhabitants (even if the coexistence between migrants and residents is not always easy). It is precisely this attitude, recognized internationally, which today is candidate to enter the list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity of UNESCO.
The candidacy will be officially launched on September 12, during the pianist and composer concert Giovanni Allevi, scheduled in the charming setting of the former Cala French Cava. A symbolic place, halfway between the wild nature and the history of the island, will become musical stage, but also of a universal brotherhood message. To promote the initiative is the Perou Association, which is carrying out the “Avenir” project: an imposing 67 -meter long catamaran and 22.50 wide, described as the first European ship designed for rescue on the high seas.
A candidacy that wants to recognize the humanity of the island
The project is part of the candidacy of Agrigento to the Italian capital of culture 2025, which made Mediterranean brotherhood and intercultural dialogue its bearing axes.
“Avenir is a pioneering tool, the first European ship designed for rescue on the high seas, a square where fraternity is affirmed and multilingualism is experienced. – we read in the dossier – the catamaran supports the gestures of rescue, care, benevolence and friendship that develop at the time of the meeting with those looking for refuge in Europe”.
The mayor of Lampedusa and Linosa, Filippo Mannino, took the opportunity to invite Sergio Mattarella to the concert on September 12th.
“She was in Lampedusa in 2016, and precisely this year, during the inauguration of Agrigento Italian capital of culture wanted to mention the island, defining her with words that we have not forgotten: ‘avant -garde of European civilization and expression of solidarity culture’. – he writes in a letter addressed to the President of the Republic – words that have given us strength. Since I became the mayor, almost 200 corpses have been given to me. hand, to help, to welcome.
Lampedusa’s candidacy for UNESCO heritage rewards the humanity of the inhabitants of the island and that Europe ready to tend their hand to those in difficulty. If it were to materialize, it would be a strong signal for the whole world.
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Sources: Navire Avenir/Ansa
