Naples Hosts National Event: ‘Mural of Respect’ Against Gender Violence Unveiled
Naples, June 6, 2026 – The city of Naples became a focal point for youth activism against gender violence as the national Uisp event, concluding the “Differenze 2.0” project, took place on June 5th and 6th. Students from across Italy gathered at the “Sannino De Cillis” Institute in Ponticelli, where they presented impactful campaigns and unveiled the poignant “Mural of Respect” dedicated to victims of femicide.
Students from Seven Cities Unite in Awareness Campaigns
The “Sannino De Cillis” Institute, located at Via Angelo Camillo De Meis, 243, hosted students from Nuoro, Castrovillari, Forlì, Potenza, Enna, and Valle D’Itria, alongside their Neapolitan counterparts. These young individuals form a network that has conceptualized and executed numerous awareness initiatives as part of the “Differenze 2.0” project. Their work, showcased during the two-day event, underscores a collective commitment to addressing and combating gender-based violence.
The Unveiling of the ‘Mural of Respect’
A significant highlight of the event was the inauguration of the “Mural of Respect” on Saturday, June 6th, at 12:30 PM. This powerful artistic installation, created by the students of the “Sannino De Cillis” Institute, serves as a lasting tribute to the victims of femicide and a strong visual message against gender violence. The mural’s unveiling was met with solemn reflection and renewed determination to foster a culture of respect and equality.
Two-Day Program Focused on Awareness and Engagement
The event commenced on Friday, June 5th, at 3:30 PM, with a walking tour of Naples led by students from the host institute, offering participants a unique perspective on the city. The evening included a dinner at “Agricucina a mm zero” and a visit to the farm, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences among the young activists.
Saturday, June 6th, marked the final event, held at the Theater Hall of the “Sannino De Cillis” Institute in Ponticelli, beginning at 9:30 AM. The proceedings opened with addresses from prominent figures, including Angela Mormone, Headmistress of the “Sannino De Cillis” Institute; Andrea Morniroli, Councillor for Social Policies and Schools of the Campania Region (via video contribution); Maura Striano, Councillor for Education and Families, Municipality of Naples; and Emanuela Ferrante, Councillor for Sport, Equal Opportunities, and Policies to Combat Gender Violence, Municipality of Naples. Also invited was Irma Testa, Olympic boxing champion from the Fiamme Gialle Sports Group, and Enrica Francini, Vice President of Uisp, further highlighting the broad support for the initiative.
Presentations and Expert Contributions
Following the opening remarks, students from Cassano allo Ionio (Cs), Enna, Martina Franca (Ta), Nuoro, Melfi (Pz), Forlì, and Naples presented their locally developed communication campaigns. These presentations offered insights into the diverse approaches taken by the youth to raise awareness within their communities.
The project evaluation featured Anna Lisa Amodeo, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology and Scientific Director of the Anti-Discrimination and Culture of Differences Section, SInAPSi University Center, University of Naples Federico II. Antonino Firetto, psychologist, psychotherapist, and president of LYR – Live Your Rainbow, along with Gaia Di Salvo, psychologist, psychotherapist, and LYR partner, discussed the role-playing game as an active participation experience in schools.
At 11:50 AM, a workshop for reflection on the campaigns was conducted by the project’s scientific committee, which included Eleonora Pinzuti, lecturer, essayist, professional trainer, president of A.I.F. Tuscany and Research Fellow at the University of Siena; Claudio Cappotto, psychologist and psychotherapist, SInAPSi University Center, University of Naples Federico II; and Ilenia Sanzo, psychologist and psychotherapist. The proceedings were coordinated by Manuela Claysset, Head of Gender Policies and Rights at Uisp, and Silvia Saccomanno, National Coordinator of the “Differenze 2.0” project.
Sports Corner and Community Engagement
Between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM, Uisp Campania offered a sports corner, providing an opportunity for all attendees to experience tree climbing, oriental disciplines, and hip hop, promoting active participation and well-being. This interactive session further enhanced the community aspect of the event, reinforcing the message of unity and strength in combating social issues.
The “Differenze 2.0” project is funded by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers – Department for Equal Opportunities – Notice Violence 2022, underscoring the institutional commitment to these vital initiatives.
