On April 25, 2025, cities across Italy commemorated the 80th anniversary of the liberation from Nazi-fascism, with significant events held in Milan, Florence, and Parma. Each city organized a series of ceremonies and demonstrations, highlighting the importance of this historical moment while addressing contemporary political tensions.
In Milan, the day began with heightened security measures as over 90,000 participants gathered for the procession starting from Porta Venezia and culminating in Piazza Duomo. The head of the procession entered the square around 2:30 PM, where various speeches were planned. Mayor Beppe Sala addressed the crowd, emphasizing that "democracies are under attack from within," and called for unity against rising nationalistic sentiments. He recalled Pope Francis's previous remarks on the importance of democracy and solidarity, stating, "These values we take for granted are under threat. Today is for everyone who defends our democracy, starting with our President of the Republic."
Despite the solemnity of the occasion, tensions arose as a pro-Palestinian group attempted to position themselves at the front of the procession, which sparked controversy. The group, numbering around 200, had gathered early in via Palestro, declaring their intention to lead the event. This move was met with resistance from the Anpi (National Association of Italian Partisans), which traditionally leads the procession. After negotiations, an agreement was reached to allow the Anpi to lead, although pro-Palestinian demonstrators continued to chant slogans such as "Israel criminal" and "Palestine immortal" as they marched.
Among the notable attendees in Milan was rapper Ghali, who joined the pro-Palestinian supporters. The Jewish Brigade, which had faced violence at last year's event, marched under police escort, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding potential clashes. Their presence was marked by slogans like "Resistance to terror" and "Resistance to radicalism," as they faced verbal attacks from opposing groups.
In a poignant moment, Sandra Gilardelli, a centenarian partisan, spoke in Piazza Duomo, stating, "The 25th of April is a day for all Italians." She reflected on her family's antifascist legacy and urged attendees to remain vigilant against the resurgence of fascism. "If I hear that word again, I tremble," she declared, calling on the crowd to resist and raise their voices against oppression.
Meanwhile, in Florence, a series of institutional ceremonies marked the day, starting with the laying of a laurel wreath in Piazza dell'Unità Italiana. The city's mayor, Sara Funaro, and regional president Eugenio Giani were present, alongside representatives from various associations. The day included a procession to Palazzo Vecchio, where speeches were made, emphasizing the need to remember the sacrifices made during the Resistance. Various events, including a concert by the Filarmonica Giacomo Rossini, were planned throughout the day.
Florence Antifascista organized a mobilization in Piazza Santo Spirito, focusing on the contemporary relevance of the Resistance. They emphasized that the fight against fascism is ongoing, stating, "The causes that made the Resistance necessary have not disappeared." The event featured speeches from various groups, including pro-Palestinian activists, who linked their struggle to the historical fight for liberation.
In Parma, celebrations commenced with a procession featuring historical flags of the Partisan Brigades, carried by students. The morning included a Holy Mass at Santa Croce, followed by a series of speeches at Piazza Garibaldi. The day also featured a bicycle tour commemorating the Resistance and a concert by the Corpo Bandistico Giuseppe Verdi. Events will continue in Parma until May 14, with exhibitions focused on the city's history during the war.
As the day unfolded, the atmosphere in Milan remained tense, with police and volunteers from City Angels working to maintain order amid the competing narratives of the pro-Palestinian and Jewish groups. The Jewish Brigade concluded their participation early, exiting near Piazza Cordusio due to safety concerns, a decision made in light of the previous year's violence.
Despite the challenges, leaders like Maurizio Landini of the Cgil labor union emphasized the importance of the day, stating, "We are all here to strengthen democracy and freedom." He criticized the government's call for sobriety during the celebrations, suggesting that such requests can undermine the spirit of the day.
Overall, the 80th anniversary of the liberation served as a reminder of Italy's complex history and the ongoing struggles for justice and equality. As voices from different sides clashed, the essence of the day's commemoration—honoring those who fought for freedom—remained a central theme across all celebrations.
