Fifty thousand for Europe , with Piazza del Popolo in Rome packed , so much so that at a certain point the entrances were closed, for safety. A stage with artists, comedians, actors, writers, associations, but no politicians, only a group of administrators, of mayors, who gave a hand in organizing the demonstration launched by Michele Serra on Repubblica.
"Let's not lose sight of each other," said the journalist opening the day. "There are many of us," he explained, "because we are one people. A European square is a square of people who do not think the same way about many things."
The parties remained on the sidelines, behind the stage, with more than one outing among the crowd . But the divisions were clearly visible: the center-right was not there, the opposition was, but each with its own idea, and without the M5s .
But "let's not create controversy - said the secretary of the Democratic Party, Elly Schlein - we are enjoying this wonderful demonstration for a federal Europe". In the square there was a Girotondina atmosphere, of a now mature but not disenchanted movement. The demonstration was to build a dam. To defend a Europe that risks being crushed between Russian tanks in Ukraine and the aggressive policy of Donald Trump . However, there were as many recipes as you wanted. And in fact the flags were of all types. Most of all those of Europe. Then those of peace: for those who are against the rearmament plan of the president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. And those of Ukraine: for those who are in favor. Even symbols and banners marked the differences.
EU colors around the neck for the PD secretary Elly Schlein , those of Ukraine for the reformists like Filippo Sensi, those of peace for the left of the party, like Nico Stumpo. Also present were the former prime minister Paolo Gentiloni and the former minister Dario Franceschini.
The secretary of Azione Carlo Calenda arrived in the square together with the representatives of the Ukrainian and Georgian communities. With the Ukrainians also Riccardo Magi , of Più Europa, and some Pd members critical of the secretary, such as Pina Picierno and Alessandro Alfieri . There were the three unions: the Cgil with Maurizio Landini, Daniela Fumarola new leader of the Cisl and the secretary of the Uil Pierpaolo Bombardieri.
"To the politicians present in the square and to those who are not there, I have only one small criticism to make - Serra said from the stage - You are too intelligent. Please try to be a little more stupid, like this square that has not done any calculations. Please try to talk to each other and even listen to each other."
On stage Jovanotti, Pennac, Vecchioni, Paolo Virzì. And Liliana Segre : «Defending Europe means many things - she said - Of course, it means putting yourself in a position to face the threats of the enemies of peace, who exist and who should not be underestimated. Surrender has never prevented wars, indeed it has always only encouraged plans of oppression».
(Online Union)
