On April 25, 2025, thousands of people gathered at Casa Cervi in Gattatico, Reggio Emilia, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Liberation, a pivotal moment in Italy's history. The event was not just a remembrance of the past but a call to action for present and future generations to uphold the values of democracy and resistance against oppression.
Albertina Soliani, president of the Cervi Institute, addressed the crowd, proclaiming, "We are the new partisans." This statement resonated deeply with the audience, reflecting the spirit of resistance that characterized the events of the day. Soliani had also participated in earlier celebrations in Piazza Nettuno in Bologna, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the Resistance in today's society.
Michele de Pascale, the president of the Emilia-Romagna region, echoed this sentiment during his speech. He highlighted the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by partisans, stating, "If we look into each other's eyes, we must acknowledge that the partisan fighters did not struggle for patriarchy or the many femicides occurring in our society today." De Pascale's remarks were a poignant reminder that the fight for equality and justice continues, and that the values fought for during the Resistance must be upheld in contemporary Italy.
The day was filled with various activities, including musical performances by renowned artists such as Bandabardò, Cisco, 99 Posse, and Vinicio Capossela. These performances served to not only entertain but also to reinforce the cultural significance of the day.
Flags were flown at half-mast at Casa Cervi, a solemn gesture that added to the day's somber yet celebratory atmosphere. Marco Damilano, a journalist and host, chose Casa Cervi as the location for his special broadcast, 'Ora e sempre 25 Aprile,' which aired live on Rai3 at 21:20. Damilano expressed the significance of the site, stating, "It is one of the most meaningful places of the Resistance. The martyrdom of the seven brothers connects us to the brutality of dictatorships and wars, reminding us of their relevance today."
The special broadcast featured guests who were part of the Resistance, including Teresa Vergalli, a former partisan courier, and Flora Monti, who was just 12 years old when she became Italy's youngest courier. Their stories illuminated the personal sacrifices made during the war and the importance of remembering these histories.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of nostalgia and hope. The Museo at Casa Cervi, which recounts the story of the seven Cervi brothers who were executed by fascists in 1943, saw many families and children visiting, eager to learn about their history. The museum serves as a vital educational resource, ensuring that the memories of those who fought for freedom are not lost to time.
The celebrations were not limited to speeches and music; they also included a live streaming event hosted by Reggio Sera, which began at 13:00. This marathon of civil engagement featured concerts, discussions, and testimonies, allowing a broader audience to participate in the remembrance of Liberation Day.
As the day progressed, various speakers took to the stage, including local mayors Michele Guerra and Marco Massari, who joined de Pascale and Soliani in honoring the legacy of the Resistance. Their collective voices underscored the importance of community and solidarity in preserving democratic values.
In a reflective moment, Damilano noted that the broadcast would also include a tribute to Pope Francis, who had recently passed away. He stated, "We will reflect on his contributions to peace, acceptance, and solidarity," emphasizing that the values promoted by the late Pope align closely with those celebrated on Liberation Day. Damilano insisted that the day should be a celebration for all of Italy, not just a select few, and that the loss of the Pope should not overshadow the significance of April 25.
The event culminated with a DJ set by Mark Bee, closing a day filled with music, memory, and a renewed commitment to the principles of freedom and resistance. The combination of historical reflection and contemporary cultural expression created a unique atmosphere, uniting people from all walks of life in a shared purpose.
As Italy commemorates this significant anniversary, the messages of the speakers and performers resonate with a sense of urgency. The call to action is clear: the fight for democracy and justice is ongoing, and it is up to the new generations to carry the torch lit by those who came before them. The celebrations at Casa Cervi serve as a powerful reminder that the spirit of the Resistance lives on, inspiring future actions against oppression and injustice.
In conclusion, the 80th anniversary of the Liberation was not just a day of remembrance but a rallying cry for all Italians to engage actively in the defense of democratic values and human rights. As the echoes of the past resonate in today's society, the words of Albertina Soliani ring true: "We are the new partisans," ready to face the challenges of our time.
