Introduction, new Last Generation initiative
On 4 April 2024, a demonstration organized by the “Noparking Fara” committee saw the active participation of the “Ultima Generazione” group in Bergamo, in via Fara. The event was organized on the occasion of the inauguration of the new “Città Alta” car park. This article will examine in detail the context, motivations and actions of Ultima Generazione and the citizens involved, focusing on the goal of promoting more sustainable mobility and participatory democracy.
The Bergamo Presidium
The Context of the Presidium
At 10:00 on 4 April, a group of people adhering to the Ultima Generazione “Repair Fund” campaign joined the “Noparking Fara” demonstration to protest against the inauguration of the new “Città Alta” car park in Bergamo. The structure, located under the Rock, has been at the center of criticism for its impact on the urban environment and city mobility.
Police Intervention
During the protest, three protesters sat in front of the police to block traffic. The officers removed the protesters, snatching the phone with which they were recording the event. This gesture provoked the approach of other people who occupied the street, leading to a spontaneous popular assembly.
Reasons for the Protest
Public Cement and Private Mobility
Citizens and members of the Last Generation opposed the construction of the car park, arguing that cities need green areas and urban policies oriented towards public and sustainable mobility, rather than new car parks in historic centres. The “Noparking Fara” committee and Ultima Generazione are trying to promote a new form of local democracy that involves popular participation and direct democracy.
Popular Assemblies
Ultima Generazione is organizing popular assemblies throughout Italy to promote direct democracy and give citizens the opportunity to express their opinion on decisions regarding their cities. The assemblies are seen as an act of regenerating democracy, offering an inclusive public space for consultation.
May mobilization
Demonstrations in Rome
Ultima Generazione has announced a mobilization in Rome for three weeks in May, with two large days of protest on 11 and 25 May. This mobilization aims to highlight the crisis of Italian democracy, underlining the need for a government that addresses the climate crisis and protects citizens, rather than stifling voices of dissent.
Repair Fund
The group calls for the establishment of a preventive and permanent Reparation Fund, financed through the elimination of Environmentally Harmful Subsidies (SAD), the taxation of extra profits of fossil fuel companies, the cutting of political and military spending. Ultima Generazione will continue to organize nonviolent civil disobedience actions to achieve this goal.
How to Participate and Contribute
Meetings and Donations
Ultima Generazione organizes online meetings every Sunday evening at 9pm, offering citizens the opportunity to register and participate. The group also accepts donations to help with its members’ legal expenses.
Communication channels
Updates on Ultima Generazione’s activities are available on their social channels and website:
- Website: https://ultima-generazione.com
- Facebook: @ultimagenerazione.A22
- Instagram: @last generation
- Twitter: @UltimaGenerazi1
- Telegram: @last generation
Conclusion
The protest in Bergamo against the inauguration of the car park in Via Fara represents an important example of civil activism. Ultima Generazione and the citizens involved are trying to promote more sustainable mobility and more participatory democracy, opposing political decisions that they believe are harmful to the urban environment. The May mobilization in Rome promises to be a further step towards these objectives, demonstrating the courage and determination of citizens who want a better future for their cities and the country.
