BOLZANO. “Our young people must be able to draw from meetings like this the awareness that respect and solidarity must be the basis of every relationship, and that their voice can be a powerful tool for change”. Gino Cecchettin, father of Giulia Cecchettin, the woman killed a year ago by her ex-boyfriend in Vigonovo, said this while speaking at the Teatro Cristallo in Bolzano during one of the days of the “Together against gender violence” initiative.
The meeting constituted “a powerful reminder of the duty to commit, each in their own sphere, for a world in which every woman can feel free, respected and safe. Because gender violence is not only a crime against the individual person, but an offense to the entire community, which threatens the values on which a just society is founded.”
The vice president of the Province was also present at the initiative, Marco Galateowho underlined how important respect for the dignity and rights of women is. “Every story of violence is a defeat for the entire society. All of us are called, as citizens, educators, parents and institutions, to reject any form of indifference and to choose action – underlined Galateo – Giulia Cecchettin’s story concerns everyone us: Respect for women cannot and must not be an abstract value, but a concrete reality to be built day by day”.
How can local organizations effectively support young people in addressing issues of gender violence?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Gino Cecchettin
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Gino Cecchettin. Thank you for joining us today. Your poignant words at the “Together against gender violence” initiative have resonated with many. Can you tell us what inspired you to speak out at events like this?
Gino Cecchettin: Thank you for having me. The loss of my daughter, Giulia, has profoundly changed my life. I felt an urgent need to share her story and advocate for understanding and change. It’s vital for young people to realize that respect and solidarity should form the foundation of every relationship.
Time.news Editor: You emphasize the importance of young people recognizing their voice as a tool for change. Why do you think that message is particularly crucial today?
Gino Cecchettin: In today’s world, young people face many challenges, especially regarding gender violence and societal pressures. They need to understand that they have the power to challenge harmful behaviors and attitudes. Their voices can spark change—not just for themselves, but for future generations. It’s about building a culture of respect and awareness.
Time.news Editor: At the Teatro Cristallo, your message clearly struck a chord. How do you feel events like these contribute to the larger conversation around gender violence?
Gino Cecchettin: Events like these create a space for dialogue, to bring together people from different backgrounds. They foster awareness and encourage solidarity. When individuals share their stories, it personalizes the issue and makes it a community concern rather than something to be hidden away.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of community, what role do you think local organizations play in combating gender violence?
Gino Cecchettin: Local organizations are crucial. They provide resources, support, and education. They can facilitate workshops and discussions that equip young people with the tools to recognize unhealthy relationships and stand against violence. Collaboration between these organizations can amplify their reach and effectiveness.
Time.news Editor: Looking ahead, what changes would you like to see in societal attitudes toward gender violence?
Gino Cecchettin: I hope to see a shift where discussions about gender violence become normalized—where it’s no longer a taboo subject. I want young people to hold each other accountable and foster environments where respect is the standard. We need to empower them to speak out without fear.
Time.news Editor: what is your message to those who might feel powerless in the face of such a significant issue?
Gino Cecchettin: No one is powerless. Every small action matters. Whether it’s speaking up about something they witness or supporting their peers, every voice counts. Change starts with individuals who dare to stand up and demand better—for themselves and for their communities.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Gino. Your dedication to creating a safer future for young people is truly inspiring. We appreciate your insights and the courage you show in sharing Giulia’s story.
Gino Cecchettin: Thank you. It’s through sharing stories and working together that we can begin to drive real change.