Rome, Italy - June 26, 2024

In a stark display of civil disobedience, the movement LET’S BURN EVERYTHING staged a dramatic action today at the iconic Spanish Square in Rome. The protest, aimed at raising awareness about femicide and gender-based violence, unfolded with symbolic intensity on the steps of the square, leaving a lasting impression on witnesses and authorities alike.

At precisely 10:06 AM, seven activists from LET’S BURN EVERYTHING converged at the top of the Spanish Square stairs. Four activists halted midway, drawing attention with vocal calls while unfurling banners emblazoned with the movement’s name and the date of their next assembly. Simultaneously, the remaining activists poured a cascade of red color down the steps, symbolizing the bloodshed of victims of femicide in Italy, from Giulia Cecchettin to present day.

"This is their blood," declared Anna, one of the activists, amidst the somber yet defiant atmosphere. "A massacre hidden in plain sight, normalized by society’s indifference."

Following the crimson descent, sheets of paper bearing the names of femicide victims were scattered across the staircase, marking each tragic loss with poignant visibility. Handprints and footprints, smeared in red, adorned the sides - a visceral reminder of the violence perpetrated against women.

Manuela, another participant, echoed the sentiment: "We are here to scream our pain and demand visibility. Our government’s inaction is complicit in these tragedies."

The protest culminated in a call to action, urging transfeminist and queer communities to unite on July 6 for a coalition aimed at lobbying for a liberation income to support survivors of gender violence. The proposed income, totaling EUR 400 per month for up to 12 months, seeks to provide financial autonomy and a pathway out of violence for affected individuals.

Despite police intervention at 10:36 AM resulting in the detention of all activists involved, the message of LET’S BURN EVERYTHING resonated beyond the square, underscoring the urgent need for societal change and legislative reform.

"This movement," concluded Manuela, "is a testament to our collective resolve to dismantle patriarchal structures and ensure a safe, dignified life for all."

In the face of ongoing challenges and systemic resistance, LET’S BURN EVERYTHING remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice and equality, determined to ignite a transformative dialogue on gender violence in Italy and beyond.