April 29th was a day of great significance in the heart of the Biodiversity Park of Catanzaro, where a moving ceremony full of hope took place: the laying of the first Stumbling Stone dedicated to the Special Olympics Athletes. Organized with care and passion by the Istituto Comprensivo Catanzaro Nord Est Manzoni led by the Headmaster Giulio Comerci, the event represented a moment of sharing and commitment for social inclusion and support for athletes with intellectual disabilities, highlighting the crucial role of School in promoting essential values such as Solidarity and Resilience.
The authoritative presence of the president of the Provincial Administration, Mario Mormile, of the mayor Nicola Fiorita, of the councilor for Culture, Sport and Education Nunzio Belcaro of the Administrative Manager Salvatore Bullotta, of the Chief Commissioner Mario Perri, representing the Catanzaro Police Commissioner, of the Marshal Li Calzi, representing the Italian Army Military Command – Calabria, the president of the Equal Opportunities Commission of the Province of Catanzaro Donatella Soluri, underlined the institutional importance of the event which together with the Regional Director of Special Olympics, Luisa Elitro, and the Provincial Director Francesco Miscioscia, paid tribute to the strength and determination of Special Olympics athletes. All those who spoke expressed the opinion that Inclusion and Integration are fundamental objectives in the education system and that we must focus on educational models that encourage the participation of all children and students in inclusive and diversified environments.
The gift of Universo Minori
It is also necessary to recognize the precious contribution of the lawyer Rita Tulelli who, through the Universo Minori Association chaired by her, donated the Stumbling Stone and the Totem and the availability shown by Debora Giordano, CRAS Manager and the President of the Orlando Parentela Institute Council who allowed the event to be a perfect success. The ceremony focused on one of the most significant initiatives for integration and acceptance of diversity: the Special Olympics; these athletes, in fact, with their determination and passion, represent an example of strength and resilience in the face of difficulties.
Principal Comerci reiterated that this global movement is committed to providing sporting opportunities to people with intellectual disabilities, promoting values of respect, inclusion and dignity for all individuals towards whom the School cannot be indifferent, hoping, on the contrary, that this event be a catalyst for reflection and internalization of the values of Union and Hospitality in the local community and beyond. The Memorial Stone represents a tangible symbol of these ideals, promoting open dialogue and greater awareness of the rights and challenges of people with disabilities. The choice to lay the first Stumbling Stone inside the Biodiversity Park of Catanzaro was particularly significant. This place, a symbol of nature and harmony, has been transformed into a sacred space where Special Olympics athletes can find inspiration and support in their daily battle for personal fulfillment and social recognition.
Sport and social inclusion
The headmaster wanted to extend heartfelt thanks to the teacher Teresa Mengani, promoter of the initiative, supported by her colleagues Debora Aversa, Katja Di Benedetto and Virginia Gidaro. The presence of regional associations, represented by the RSA La Rinascita, I Girasoli and Andromeda, have demonstrated how fundamental sport is for social inclusion. These initiatives offer individuals with disabilities the opportunity to actively participate and integrate into society through sporting activity. This type of involvement promotes self-confidence, a sense of belonging and promotes awareness of the importance of inclusion through movement and play. The ceremony, as well as being a moment of reflection on the challenges and difficulties that athletes with intellectual disabilities have to face every day, also underlined the potential and extraordinary abilities of these people, who, with determination and commitment, overcome every obstacle to pursue their goals. own dreams. The blessing of the Stone by the Reverend Father Francesco Lanzillotti, delegated by the Archbishop, aroused deep emotion during the ceremony, the presence of an authoritative and charismatic religious figure gave a spiritual and sacred meaning to the event, transmitting a sense of peace and unity at the commemoration.
In fact, he added an element of solemnity and reflection, inviting those present to meditate on the values of Memory, Hope and Reconciliation that the Stumbling Stone represents and the emotion generated was palpable, as it made evident the emotional and moral depth of this moment of Remembrance and Commitment for a future based on tolerance and solidarity. Her presence contributed to making the event a moment of sharing and renewed hope for a community aware of the values of inclusion and mutual respect. The Stumbling Stone is not just a material symbol, but a tangible sign of our duty to build a more inclusive and supportive society. It reminds us all of the importance of recognizing and valuing diversity, making the world a better place for everyone. On this day a gesture of Solidarity and Hope was made, which will remain engraved in the hearts of all those who participated.
