Does the mouth speak of what the heart is full of? If the phrase of the apostle Saint Matthew is correct, Antonio Tajani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister of Italy, exposed what he really thinks about the millions of Italian-Brazilians when he stated that “being Italian is not linked to seven generations”.
This statement, made during an event in Rimini this Thursday (23), reveals a vision that disregards the immense value of Italian roots and the cultural and historical impact of the millions of Italian-Brazilians who, despite geographical distance, keep Italian heritage alive, whether in Brazil or in other parts of the world.
By suggesting that Italianity is lost or acquired depending on the current context, Tajani directly affects the identity of a community that, over the generations, carries with it the values, traditions and culture that define What does it mean to be Italian.
The minister, who holds one of the most influential positions in the Italian government, seems to ignore that Italian identity is not just a territorial bond or a question of geographic proximity. Being Italian is much more than that; It is a heritage that transcends borders, being transmitted from generation to generation. To disregard this connection is, ultimately, weaken Italian identity itself.
The defense of “ius scholae” as yet another criterion for Italian citizenship, promoted by Tajani and his Forza Italia party (FI), is a legitimate debate, but one that should be conducted with due consideration for the rights of Italian descendants.
However, it is worrying that this discussion is being carried out at the expense of devaluing the “ius sanguinis”, a principle that recognizes the right to citizenship of those who have blood ties with Italy, regardless of the time or generations that have passed since immigration.
Tajani's speech reflects a shallow and immediate vision, which disregards the vital role that the Italian diaspora has played over the centuries in spreading Italian culture around the world.
Instead of weakening the "jus sanguinis" and, consequently, devalue millions of Italian-Brazilians, Italian leaders should look for ways to strengthen these ties and recognize the importance of those who, regardless of how many generations have passed, carry Italy in their hearts.
One question that remains unanswered is: will the Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Do you share this vision of your vice prime minister? That's scary.
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