On May 25th 2020, George Perry Floyd was killed in the city of Minneapolis in Minnesota by the hand of a police officer. The arrest footage was widely diffused through international media, leading to the emergence of several protests against the abuse of power and racism.
In Italy this event has largely influenced public opinion, especially in the younger population. Having a past of fascist domination, racism and discrimination against foreigners still occur in Italy, also due to the phenomenon of migrants’ landings on the Italian coasts.
The news immediately spread in the country through social networks and so various events were organized in the largest Italian cities. The voice of the young Italians, who strongly opposed to these events, spoke itself, promoting peace, equality and integration.
Italian youth aims at a more conscious future, dreaming of a country where any person, regardless of religion, sexual orientation and skin color, can have the same rights.
On June 9th, in the Brescia’s city center, a protest was held to remember the events that took place in the USA and to underline problems that still afflict our society today. Several participants, especially young students, expressed their opinion in front of Piazza Vittoria. Among these people, a member of “Mediterranea” intervened.
“Mediterranea” is an association that operates in the Mediterranean, observing, documenting and informing the public of what happens in those waters. She highlighted how still many migrants lose their lives in our seas, under the indifference of a large portion of the Italian population.
Despite the difficulties due to the coronavirus pandemic, which deeply affected the whole national territory, the protest took place in a peaceful way, trying to respect as much as possible the rules imposed by the government.
Although the tragic events that led to the protest, it has been an opportunity to demonstrate that perhaps it is possible to build a better world for everyone.
About the author:
Luca Bortolami was born in 1998. He lives and works in Italy as photographer. His works ranges from commercial photography to reportage. Currently graduating in photography at the Academy of Fine Arts in Brescia.
