“We strongly condemn all forms of violence. At the same time, we firmly reject the reconstructions of some political exponents who they paint the villa as an out-of-control place, dominated by vandals and thugs. Over the last five years, Villa Dante has been the subject of an ambitious urban regeneration project, which has transformed this public space from a neglected area to a lively community center”. This is what we read in a joint press release from the municipal administration and Messina Social City after the brawl that took place at Villa Dante.
“Thanks to a joint commitment by the municipal administration and Messina Social, Villa Dante is today a place where sport, culture and sociality meet, with modern sports facilities, a multifunctional center with coworking and spaces dedicated to children and families. Even greenery and the entire area have been completely redeveloped to ensure a safe and welcoming environment.
The urban regeneration process included a strong component of civic re-education. Every day, educators and pedagogists are active to raise awareness among those who frequent the villa to respect the rules of the common good, intervening promptly in the event of inappropriate behavior. Messina Social City certainly does not ignore the fights between teenagers that recently occurred in the villa which reflect not only the challenge that teenagers face in managing emotions and social relationships, but also the importance of providing them with safe spaces and educational moments that help them to grow in a positive and constructive way. It is essential to reiterate that, despite some isolated episodes of incorrect conduct, Villa Dante continues to be a place frequented daily by families, elderly people and young people who respect and appreciate it for what it has become: a green lung, a social point of reference – concludes the note – and a meeting space for the community”.