On the morning of today, June 1st, while a tractor parade was taking place in Reggio Emilia, two signs attracted attention. In fact, they sported the words “Executioner who gives up”: a slogan known for being used in far-right and neo-fascist circles. In addition to the writing, torn centre-left election posters were also seen. The event was organised, as per tradition, by some students and former pupils of the ‘Zanelli’ agricultural high school, who carry it out at the end of each school year.
The reactions
The school, however, distanced itself immediately after the controversy broke out, explaining that it “had not authorized the event, which was carried out in a personal capacity by the students who will assume their responsibilities”. The Democratic Party of Reggio Emilia also intervened on the matter, with a note: «Unacceptable behavior which we intend to report to the relevant authorities and from which trade associations must distance themselves by expressing firm condemnation, to protect democracy». And again: «If the involvement of young students from our schools is confirmed, we recommend that they read Giacomo Matteotti’s speech in the chamber of 30 May 1924, the hundredth anniversary of which was just yesterday».
Cover photo: Resto del Carlino
