On the eve of the referendum in Italy on the relaxation of citizenship rules by length of residence, community leaders reinforce the call for a conscious vote. Among them is Elisangela Batista Da Silva, who has lived in the country for over 25 years and leads an association that supports immigrants, Bem (Brazilians in Milan). For her, the “no” vote could directly affect the Brazilian community.
“When you say 'I'm going to vote no', you're not just creating a barrier against Africans or Arabs, but also against Brazilians themselves,” he says.
The referendum proposal provides for the reduction from ten to five years of the minimum period of legal, continuous and uninterrupted residence required to apply for Italian citizenship. Despite the mobilization of the extreme right against the measure, Elisângela remembers that many Brazilians choose Italy to live in a stable way.
“We have Brazilians, Americans, Canadians and Mexicans who are looking to live in Italy. They are people who want to put down roots, not just pass through,” he adds.
She points out that the proposed legislation maintains strict requirements, such as proof of minimum income, knowledge of the Italian language and a clean criminal record. She also emphasizes that the referendum also represents a defense of immigrants' labor rights.
“This referendum, especially the first four questions, is a defense for workers. Even if you are in Brazil today, your child may decide to come tomorrow and will be a worker. I would like him to be protected as he should be,” he explains.
The community leader shared her own experience with the Italian labor system. After suffering an accident while working, she is currently facing a legal battle to have her rights recognized. “I had an accident while working at an Amazon cooperative. I broke my shoulder, humerus, collarbone and three tendons. I am having to go to court to have my rights recognized,” she says.
For her, the moment demands more empathy and less judgment. Elisângela is concerned about the growth of discourses that divide immigrants into “deserving” and “opportunistic.”
“Our war should not be against another human being who is trying to survive. If I am a descendant of someone who fled poverty, why should I close the door to someone who is coming today?” he concludes.
The referendum will be held in Italy on June 8 and 9. Italians abroad will vote by mail.
If approved, the referendum will not automatically grant citizenship. In addition to five years of continuous and uninterrupted legal residence, the process will require proof of minimum income, a criminal record, knowledge of the Italian language and will involve an analysis that could last more than two years.
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