The Charter of Palermo was formulated in 2015 by the mayor of the city of Palermo, Leoluca Orlando, together with civil and political activists. The charter considers itself as a human rights pamphlets: Every person should be able to decide freely where they want to live. Nobody should be forced to leave. Freedom of movement is a human right. All migrants are welcomed. Whoever comes to Palermo is a Palermitan.
Mustapha F. came to Sicily from Gambia. He had to spend several months in different reception camps until he came to Palermo. Since then he has been going to school, learning Italian and, like many others, working part-time (often several jobs and usually without an employment contract).
Fatima D. goes to school and receives training as a musician at the conservatory. Her future dream is to become a singer and musician. Her wish came about through a spontaneous encounter with a drum teacher who saw her playing the djembé.
Emmanuel comes from Ghana and has lived in Palermo since 1992. In the 27 years he has worked in various professions. Emmanuel could no longer pursue his profession as an industrial mechanic in Palermo and took a job as a night watchman in a flower shop.
Giulia di Carlo worked in a reception centre in Palermo and describes from her perspective the situation for refugees in the city.
Diawara B. and the Mayor of Palermo, Leoluca Orlando, talk about the possibilites of Palermo as a city of reception.
Diawara B. talks about the so-called “Security Decree” passed by the Italian government.
Diawara B. talks about the shocking experiences he made after his arrival in a reception camp in Sicily and the support he received on…
Kadija J. about the thankfulness for the support she received in Palermo.
