An asterisk used to promote safe “kids/dog-cat” interactions has sparked a lively discussion in Naples.
The “Novaro-Cavour” Comprehensive Institute, which includes nursery, primary and lower secondary schools in the Colli Aminei area, has informed parents of an activity linked to the “Pet school-Discovering dogs and cats” project, aimed at young students.
The controversy was raised by the lawyer Angelo Pisani, coordinator of the Commission on the Law of Affections of the Council of the Order of Lawyers of Naples. Pisani, known for having defended Diego Armando Maradona in a trial for alleged tax evasion, criticized the choice to replace the ending of “bambini” with an asterisk, calling it an expression of the “obsession of 'gender'”.
He said: "These are unacceptable and illegitimate decisions made without consent. This type of behavior causes disturbance in children and horror in parents, especially those with elements of psychological fragility."
In response, the Ministry of Education and Merit (MIM) intervened, reporting what was reconstructed by the Campania Regional School Office. The head teacher of the “Novaro-Cavour” explained that it was a “mere material error” and has already sent families a new form with the correct wording.
Luca Trapanese, councilor for social policies of the Municipality of Naples, intervened in defense of the institution and the use of the asterisk.
Trapanese, known for his experience as a gay, single, and adoptive parent of a child with Down syndrome who attends the “Novaro-Cavour,” said: “To those who are scandalized by an asterisk, I say: the problem is not grammar, but the fear of change.” He emphasized that there was no collective protest by the parents, but that “it was only one parent who raised the case.”
According to the councilor, "Italian is a discriminatory language: when we say 'bambini' we are using a masculine term that, according to grammar, automatically includes girls. But why should the masculine be valid for everyone? Why should girls be invisible in the language?"
He concluded by saying that "the asterisk does not create confusion, but makes everyone visible. And those who today cry indoctrination are simply trying to block progress."
Article published on 28 February 2025 - 19:48
The topic of the asterisk in the language is very complicated and raises different opinions. I think it is important to consider different perspectives and not to judge immediately. School should be a place of inclusion, but sometimes there are misunderstandings.