Thousands Gather in Bologna for European Unity Celebration
Cultural and political figures advocate for a united Europe at the 'A Square for Europe' event.
On April 6, 2025, over 5,000 people gathered in Bologna's Piazza Nettuno for the 'A Square for Europe' event, centered on the theme of European unity and solidarity.
The celebration concluded with a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven's 'Ode to Joy' by renowned trumpeter and composer Paolo Fresu, which is recognized as the anthem of the European Union.
The event featured prominent speakers, including Matteo Lepore, the Mayor of Bologna, and Sara Funaro, the Mayor of Florence.
Mayor Lepore emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, "We have decided to launch an important challenge, to mobilize thousands of people for Europe." He conveyed messages of support to international city leaders, including those in Kharkiv, Ukraine, and Gaza, indicating a commitment to fostering global connections amidst current geopolitical tensions.
Mayor Funaro spoke passionately about the values that should underpin the European Union, denouncing divisive policies and advocating for a community that supports all citizens, particularly young people.
She asserted, "Our Europe is one of peace, common identity, and dignified work."
The rally also included contributions from various cultural figures, such as political commentator Michele Serra and former Prime Minister Romano Prodi, reflecting a broad coalition supporting the vision of a cohesive European identity.
Participants expressed a desire for a Europe that stands united in the face of challenges, including rising authoritarianism and regional conflicts.
Lepore declared the need for a collective European defense, critiquing the European Commission's current policies regarding cohesion funds.
He underscored the importance of public demonstrations, stating, "Filling the squares is crucial because autocrats want exactly the opposite."
In addition to Bologna, organizers plan to extend similar events to other cities across Italy and Europe, further advocating for a united stance on European issues.
The occasion was marked by an atmosphere of hope and resolve, aiming to inspire continued dialogue around unity and cooperation in Europe.
The celebration concluded with a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven's 'Ode to Joy' by renowned trumpeter and composer Paolo Fresu, which is recognized as the anthem of the European Union.
The event featured prominent speakers, including Matteo Lepore, the Mayor of Bologna, and Sara Funaro, the Mayor of Florence.
Mayor Lepore emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, "We have decided to launch an important challenge, to mobilize thousands of people for Europe." He conveyed messages of support to international city leaders, including those in Kharkiv, Ukraine, and Gaza, indicating a commitment to fostering global connections amidst current geopolitical tensions.
Mayor Funaro spoke passionately about the values that should underpin the European Union, denouncing divisive policies and advocating for a community that supports all citizens, particularly young people.
She asserted, "Our Europe is one of peace, common identity, and dignified work."
The rally also included contributions from various cultural figures, such as political commentator Michele Serra and former Prime Minister Romano Prodi, reflecting a broad coalition supporting the vision of a cohesive European identity.
Participants expressed a desire for a Europe that stands united in the face of challenges, including rising authoritarianism and regional conflicts.
Lepore declared the need for a collective European defense, critiquing the European Commission's current policies regarding cohesion funds.
He underscored the importance of public demonstrations, stating, "Filling the squares is crucial because autocrats want exactly the opposite."
In addition to Bologna, organizers plan to extend similar events to other cities across Italy and Europe, further advocating for a united stance on European issues.
The occasion was marked by an atmosphere of hope and resolve, aiming to inspire continued dialogue around unity and cooperation in Europe.
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