Inclusive news for the 2024 Bruna Festival: Matera is preparing to welcome everyone, absolutely everyone, with a refreshment point dedicated to celiacs. The initiative, promoted by the mayor Domenico Bennardi and the councilor for Productive Activities Lucia Gaudiano, was born from the request of the president of the Italian Celiac Association (AIC) of Basilicata, Rocco Laguardia.
On 1 and 2 July, during the famous festival, there will be a food stall where it will be possible to taste delicious gluten-free foods. “An act of inclusion and respect towards those suffering from this eating disorder, which is increasingly widespread in modern society,” commented the municipal administration of Matera. “The decision was born with the aim of promoting inclusion and conviviality, thanks to the collaboration of local traders and a well-known itinerant operator in the sector.”
But it doesn’t end there: an information and awareness space will also be set up in the designated area, with a stand for correct information on celiac disease. An opportunity to learn more about this food intolerance which, in Italy, afflicts a growing number of people.
Celiac disease is a chronic disease of the small intestine, triggered by the ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. There is no cure, and the only way to live with celiac disease is to avoid gluten completely. “We wanted to embrace this cause of civility and inclusion,” declared mayor Bennardi and councilor Gaudiano, “to allow everyone to enjoy the celebration by tasting gastronomic products compatible with serious and widespread intolerances such as celiac disease.”
In fact, a real gluten-free area will be created in via Don Minzoni, where everyone will be able to feel welcomed without discrimination. “We thank the municipal offices for the work carried out in record time and the local food sector operators for their generous collaboration,” added Bennardi and Gaudiano.
The 2024 Bruna Festival therefore promises to be not only an event of tradition and folklore, but also an example of how a community can embrace diversity and transform it into a celebration for everyone. Do not miss!
