Applause, emotion and hands clasped around a book. This is how Giovanni Impastato was welcomed by the students of the Giovanni Lilliu Institute middle school, who couldn't wait to hear from his voice the story of the extraordinary story of his brother Peppino, a symbol of courage against the mafia. With his book "Mio Fratello. Tutta una vita con Peppino" in hand, the students transformed a simple school day into a moment of deep reflection and civic commitment .
Students from the second and third grades read and discussed, together with their teachers, not only Giovanni Impastato's book, but also Peppino's thoughts and words, alongside those of another great hero of the fight against the mafia, Giovanni Falcone. From these readings, the students drew inspiration to formulate their own personal reflection: "If you don't report, it's no longer fear, but recklessness." Strong words, which testify to how deeply the message of Peppino and those who fought crime can and must resonate even in the new generations.
The meeting was a journey into memory and an invitation to look forward with responsibility . Giovanni Impastato shared with the boys his memories of a childhood spent with Peppino, the older brother who paid with his life for his commitment against the mafia.
This initiative, curated by teachers Silvia Puddu and Andrea Durante, is part of a larger project dedicated to education for active and responsible citizenship . It was not just a moment to remember, but an opportunity to reflect on the importance of legality, justice and solidarity in society.
The goal? To encourage young people to become protagonists of change, to oppose any form of crime, and to understand that the fight for a better society begins with them.
Giovanni Impastato left the kids an indelible message: the mafia is not fought only with complaints, but with culture, courage and awareness .