Naples – Last night, an act of incivility struck the Mappatella Gym , the free gym open to all that opened a few weeks ago in Rotonda Diaz , in the heart of Naples.
Vandals ripped apart the punching bag, leaving a tangible sign of degradation and contempt for an initiative created to promote sport and social gatherings. Images of the vandalism, promptly sent by outraged citizens to the Green Left MP Francesco Emilio Borrelli , have reignited the debate on the need to protect common goods and combat incivility.
“We are still forced to deal with a minority that rows against the progress and emancipation of their city,” Borrelli declared, underlining how the majority of citizens, instead, represent an “evolved” part of society, which must demand respect and valorization of public spaces.
“We cannot allow vandalism and ignorance to slow down projects like the Mappatella Gym, which aim to make Naples competitive and full of opportunities, on a par with the great world capitals.”
The MP, along with the councilors of Municipality I of Europa Verde , Gianni Caselli and Lorenzo Pascucci , launched an appeal for the installation of a video surveillance system to protect common property from future vandalism. "We truly grow as a community only if we can isolate and curb uncivilized behavior. Troglodytes must not represent an obstacle to the realization of social and well-being projects, such as the one embodied by Mappatella Gym."
The episode has sparked indignation and concern, but also a strong determination not to back down one step. "The relaunch of Naples passes through the protection and valorization of initiatives like this", reiterated the representatives of Europa Verde, hoping that the installation of cameras can dissuade future acts of incivility and guarantee the safety of those who frequent the gym.
Mappatella Gym, a symbol of inclusion and sport, does not stop: the goal is to move forward, demonstrating that the city can and must grow, despite the actions of a few who try to undermine its progress.
It's sad to see that there are still people who don't understand the importance of places like Mappatella Gym. We need to unite to protect these spaces and promote sports, instead of destroying them with acts of vandalism.