On November 20, 2024, Milan’s Municipality 4 organized the second annual “Peace March.” The event included speeches, thematic discussions, and vibrant musical performances. It aimed to advocate for the rights of children and adolescents while promoting positive messages of peace, solidarity, nonviolence, and social responsibility to the broader community.
On November 20, 1989, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the date has since been observed as International Children’s Rights Day.
This year’s march was led primarily by young participants and divided into two groups, starting from different locations in Milan before converging.
At 9:30 a.m., the march started. One group gathered at Formentano Park in Largo Marinai D’Italia, marching through Piazzale Libia, Piazza Buozzi, and Piazzale Lodi, passing the Municipality 4, and concluding at Piazza Ferrara.
The march included teachers and students from Milan’s elementary and middle schools, along with staff from the Milan City Government, volunteers from the Association for the Defense of Human Rights and Religious Freedom in Italy, and some Christians. Participants carried banners and signs, chanting lively slogans while moving along the planned route to the sound of uplifting music. Along the way, more teachers and students from local schools joined the cheerful procession.
A light mist hung in the air, and a chill lingered, yet the children’s enthusiasm was undeterred. They chatted with one another, shouted slogans, and laughed joyfully, bringing life and energy to the quiet streets. Their innocence and liveliness were contagious, drawing smiles from onlookers. Many waved their arms to the rhythm of the music and echoed the children’s slogans.
Stefania Baldi, the legal representative of the Outside Association, gave an interview during the event. She said, “Last year, we came up with the idea of organizing this Peace March together with children and schools, and we held the first attempt. This year, we aimed to deepen our collaboration with associations and schools, and the results have been remarkable. The significance of this march lies in spreading the message of peace and encouraging everyone to come together in a moment of acceptance and unity.”
At noon, the two groups converged at Gabriele Rosa Square, where representatives from the organizers and various organizations delivered speeches. In addition to addressing the rights of children and adolescents, they also spoke on the themes of peace and nonviolence, emphasizing the importance of these values in society.
Stefano Bianco, President of the Municipality 4, addressed the crowd, saying, “As the Fourth Municipal Hall and as part of the city of Milan, we believe these values need to be reaffirmed, especially during these challenging times on the international stage. For various reasons, wars and conflicts remain widespread across the globe and, unfortunately, continue even in recent years. What we hope for is that peace can once again become the guiding principle for all of humanity.”
Volunteers from the Association for the Defense of Human Rights and Religious Freedom in Italy also addressed the audience, “Human rights are inherent to every person, irrespective of nationality, race/ethnicity, gender, or faith. Everyone deserves equal dignity and rights. Yet, wars and conflicts continue to spread globally, bringing immense suffering to countless families. Religious persecution remains a serious issue. Every individual should have the freedom to choose and practice their faith without fear of discrimination or persecution. Violence, in any form, is a grave violation of human rights. We must resolutely oppose all forms of violence and call on the international community to take action to protect religious freedom, promote peace and understanding, and teach children to treat others with love and respect.”
When discussing world peace, several participants highlighted the issue of religious freedom in today’s world. Giovanni, a host and video producer, shared his thoughts, “I believe everyone should have the freedom to follow the faith they feel best represents them, without any obstacles. Faith is a personal matter and should be lived freely. However, here we are in 2024, almost 2025, a year that will mark the Jubilee Year, and in my opinion, religious freedom remains a concerning issue.”
Irene Pasquinucci, a teacher from Mother Teresa School, shared her perspective, “Faith is the highest expression of human existence. Each of us is created by God and will ultimately return to Him. Depriving someone of this humanity dimension is far more severe than taking away speech or anything else. When faith is stripped away, people often turn to violence. On the other hand, when individuals recognize that they are created beings, that everything is a gift, and that the world is beautiful and meant for good, this awareness can truly transform human relationships and society. Therefore, taking away the religious aspect of humanity is an extremely serious matter.”
The march concluded successfully at Gabriele Rosa Square at 1:00 p.m.
