On April 25, 2025, tensions rose in Milan as the city prepared to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day, a significant event marking the end of Nazi-fascism in Italy. The atmosphere was anything but serene, with concerns about potential clashes among various groups participating in the corteo (parade). This year, the participation of the Giovani palestinesi (Palestinian youth) seeking to lead the procession has heightened the stakes, prompting reactions from both the Jewish community and the National Association of Italian Partisans (ANPI).
The corteo is set to begin at 14:30 (2:30 PM) at Porta Venezia and will make its way to the Duomo, a route that includes corso Matteotti, piazza Meda, and piazza della Scala. Organizers expected a turnout of around 70,000 participants, similar to previous years, despite the added tensions this time around.
Primo Minelli, president of the Milanese ANPI, expressed his concerns about the participation of the Palestinian youth, stating, "Those who intend to ruin the celebration are only doing a favor to right-wing parties." This sentiment reflects a broader worry that the day, which should be a moment of shared memory and respect, might be marred by provocation. The ANPI emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced representation in the corteo, urging for a peaceful celebration without any disruptions.
Minelli's comments were echoed by Davide Romano, director of the Museum of the Jewish Brigade, who criticized the Palestinian youth's intention to open the corteo. He remarked, "There are rules. Those who want to pass in front of everyone without any historical context show a lack of education and respect for those who were deported and fought for liberation." This clash of perspectives highlights the delicate balance between honoring historical memory and addressing contemporary political issues.
In response to the Palestinian youth's demands, which included a call to open the corteo alongside the partisans, Minelli stated that this request is impossible. The ANPI proposed a potential compromise where the pro-Palestinian group could join at the end of the procession, although they remained firm in their desire to lead.
As the tension escalated, the city organized a comprehensive security plan. A meeting at the police headquarters on April 24, 2025, set the stage for a heightened security presence, with barricades planned for piazza San Babila and piazza del Duomo. This year, the McDonald's location, which was the site of clashes the previous year, would also be closed during the event.
Mayor Giuseppe Sala, a traditional presence at the Duomo for the official manifestation, acknowledged the challenging atmosphere. He stated, "I don't know what the government means by a sober celebration. It should be asked of them. However, we will respect the significance of April 25, remembering what happened 80 years ago." His remarks came in light of the national mourning for Pope Francis, which coincided with the Liberation Day celebrations.
The day will also feature speeches from various political and cultural figures, including Sala, the national secretary of the CGIL Maurizio Landini, and 99-year-old former partisan Sandra Gilardelli. The presence of the Jewish Brigade, which has faced aggression in previous years, will be safeguarded by the City Angels and security services from various organizations.
Despite the potential for unrest, the ANPI and other organizers hope the day can be a moment of national celebration. They aim to remind participants of the historical significance of the Liberation, while also navigating the complexities of modern political tensions. The corteo is not only a commemoration but also a reflection of ongoing struggles for justice and recognition in today's society.
In addition to the main event, Milan will host various activities throughout the weekend, including free museum entries and cultural events, inviting citizens to engage with the city’s rich history and vibrant community. This year, the celebrations are especially poignant as they coincide with a period of national mourning, challenging the city to balance remembrance with respect.
As the clock ticks down to the corteo, all eyes will be on Milan, where the intersection of history and contemporary issues will play out in the streets. Will the day pass peacefully, or will the tensions erupt into conflict? Only time will tell, but the hope remains that the spirit of Liberation Day will shine through.
