The Senate Chamber has approved a bill to establish the National Day of Urban Peripheries. Proposed by Forza Italia, the measure was approved by the Chamber on June 26th and is now law. There were 68 senators in favor, no one against, and 48 abstentions, including Avs who, along with Peppe De Cristofaro, announced in the Chamber that they would no longer vote on any measure that establishes a day, as they have already seen around thirty such days and anticipate fifty more. The goal of the National Day of Urban Peripheries, as stated in the first article of the law, is to focus on inclusivity, sustainability, safety, economic and social development, cultural growth, and overall quality of life in cities and their peripheries.
According to the approved bill, the National Day of Urban Peripheries will be celebrated on June 24th of each year. This date corresponds to the day of the murder of Fortuna Loffredo, a six-year-old girl who was thrown from the building where she lived in Caivano, near Naples, in 2014 by a neighbor who had been abusing her for some time. The tragic event serves as a reminder of the harsh realities faced by many individuals living in urban peripheries, highlighting the urgent need for attention and action to improve the living conditions and overall well-being of these communities. By establishing this annual day of observance, the Italian government aims to maintain and enhance awareness of the challenges and opportunities present in urban peripheries, shedding light on issues such as social exclusion, environmental sustainability, and public safety.
The National Day of Urban Peripheries seeks to draw attention to the issues of social equity, environmental sustainability, and quality of life in urban peripheries, emphasizing the importance of inclusive development and community empowerment. By commemorating the memory of Fortuna Loffredo and other victims of violence and neglect in these areas, the Italian government hopes to inspire collective action and collaboration to address the root causes of urban inequality and injustice. The day serves as a call to action for policymakers, community leaders, and citizens to work together to create more livable, safe, and inclusive urban environments for all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographical location.
The establishment of the National Day of Urban Peripheries signifies a significant step towards recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by residents of marginalized neighborhoods and communities across Italy. By designating a specific day to focus on the issues of urban peripheries, the government aims to foster dialogue, raise awareness, and mobilize resources to support initiatives that promote social cohesion, economic development, and environmental sustainability in these areas. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, the National Day of Urban Peripheries aims to create a platform for shared understanding, collaboration, and solidarity among residents, policymakers, and stakeholders, working towards a more just, inclusive, and vibrant future for all urban communities in Italy.
