An academic event at the University of Catania was abruptly interrupted yesterday when around one hundred students, belonging to the “Spine in the Side” group, invaded the main hall of the rectorate.
The conference, entitled “Gender dysphoria in minors and alias careers in educational institutions: medical, anthropological and legal issues”, organized by the “Scienza e vita” association, saw the presence of controversial figures such as Archbishop Luigi Renna and Senator Paola Binetti of Forza Italia.
The students, expressing their dissent, displayed banners with the message “Transphobia out of Unict!” and criticized the University for hosting an event they believe excludes the voices of the student and LGBTQ+ community.
They highlight a contradiction between the university’s claim to be a place of inclusion and the perceived reality of discrimination and lack of equitable dialogue.
Salvatore Litrico, provincial head of the justice department of the Christian Democrats, present at the event, described the scene as a form of “violence against democracy”, criticizing the way the students protested and their unavailability for dialogue.
The conference was suspended and the students proclaimed a permanent assembly in the same room, announcing a new meeting for the following morning.
This incident highlights the growing tension between academic freedom and demands for a more inclusive and representative university environment.
Photo: Lasicilaiweb.it
Tags: Accusations Transphobia Call Inclusion
