Dairo Disegni's Outcry After Book Fair Protest
European lawmakers approve resolution on Middle Eastern affairs
After a heated pro-Palestine demonstration at the Book Fair, Turin's Jewish community leader, Dairo Disegni, issues a public plea: "The m ayor, the university rector, and the Book Fair's management need to take a stand on this matter. This is a place for discourse, and everyone should have the liberty to voice their opinions."
Yesterday, Disegni opted out of meeting with Nathan Greppi, author of the book "The Culture of Hate," and Claudio Vercelli over concerns that the atmosphere was not conducive to a civil exchange. "We understood that there was no room for a tranquil debate, so we decided not to get mixed up in this commotion," Disegni explains. "We apologized and suggested another opportunity, perhaps at our community headquarters, to present the book under serene conditions."
Disegni: "This ain't a sports match, mate"
Despite his criticism of the protesters' methods, Disegni strongly condemns them: "It's a fucking disgrace and utterly intolerable when a small group of jerks prevents a free exchange of ideas. It's a rejection of the principles that underpin a democracy," he exclaims, yet he maintains openness: "We chat with everyone. This is not a contest between teams."
Benini: "Bummed, but Book Fair guaranteed everyone's right to speak"
The Book Fair's director, Annalena Benini, felt "immensely disappointed" by Disegni and Vercelli's decision, but highlighted that "the Book Fair granted authorization for the book presentation and exercised everyone's democratic right to protest. Protests that 'are always valid', but they must occur 'with respect for freedom of speech and safety for all**.'"
Risk of anti-Semitism and Call to Action
Disegni, however, expresses his dissatisfaction with the situation in Turin: "This is fucking worrying and unacceptable. Incidents that lead to anti-Semitism are not just an issue for Jews, but for society as a whole. When you start with this intolerance and hatred, you undermine the foundations of democracy**." As a result, he implores the authorities to respond.
The Quest for a Peaceful Solution
Acknowledging the complexity of the situation, Disegni clarifies: "Our community does not represent the State of Israel. Within our community, there's a wide range of opinions regarding Israel's government policies, and we discuss them openly." He then reiterates his call for "a peaceful solution, as this awful conflict cannot go on forever. We need the smarts from all sides to envision a future that ensures rights and safety for everyone in the region." He continues: "This isn't a cool moment. The global situation is shit, and it causes deep worry for us all. Italy, though, was born from the Resistance, where Jews suffered too. They used to shout 'Out with the Jews', now they yell 'Out with the Zionists'. Does this remind you of certain periods in our history?"
Mayor Lo Russo's Response
Mayor Stefano Lo Russo was the first to respond to Disegni's appeal: "What happened yesterday at the University of Turin and the Book Fair is absolutely unacceptable — protests should never prevent conferences from taking place or individuals from attending book presentations."
Mayor Lo Russo also acknowledges the complexity of the international situation: "The horrific attacks of October 7 have caused immense pain in Israel, and the situation in Gaza continues to be heartbreaking every day, challenging our deepest values." However, the mayor firmly disapproves of the protest methods: "Criticizing the current Israeli government's policies or expressing solidarity with Palestinians does not authorize such behavior. I extend my support to Turin's Jewish community."
De Luca: "When bombs keep dropping, mistakes happen"
Political figures also weigh in on the controversy. Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuliano advocates for dialogue, while Governor of the Campania Region Vincenzo De Luca emphasizes the importance of freedom of speech: "I'm fiercely against Netanyahu's criminal policies, but I support everyone's right to voice their opinions. I abhor what happened. Everyone has the right to express themselves. Taking away someone's voice is intolerable and unhappy. However, De Luca stresses, "it's another way to quantify the devastating impact the Israeli government is causing. There's no excuse for those who prevent others from speaking, but we need to understand that when images of bombs keep coming, then mistakes can happen**."
Rector of the University's Statement
Before reaching the Book Fair, the protesters successfully disrupted the Young Jews' Union meeting on "combating anti-Semitism in universities," shouting "get rid of the Jews." Rector Stefano Geuna shares his thoughts today: "The University of Turin did everything possible to ensure the scheduled event took place peacefully. Sadly, the environment did not permit it. There's no reason for those who disrupt free speech in university settings." He also adds: "It's disappointing to see how a warped idea of freedom of expression leads to the denial of that same freedom and a genuine democratic debate. Silencing someone is a serious act that differs widely from the right to challenge other people's opinions."
- The education-and-self-development sector should prioritize fostering an environment where everyone has the liberty to exchange ideas, avoiding acts that obstruct peaceful discourse.
- The current political climate, with its topics like war-and-conflicts and crime-and-justice, necessitates lifelong-learning to navigate complex issues and recognize the importance of policy-and-legislation in promoting social justice.
- Closing avenues for general-news reporting, such as the recent disruption of the Young Jews' Union meeting, undermines the public's right to information, as it prevents open discussion on critical topics like anti-Semitism and efforts to combat it.
- In response to tense political situations and the escalation of conflicts, learning and promoting understanding between different perspectives can help propel society towards peaceful solutions, ensuring the rights and safety of all involved parties in the region.
