The heroic little island of Lampedusa, which, with little outside help, has coped for years with the flood of illegal immigrants arriving from north Africa, launches its fifth LampedusaInFestival between the 19-23 July 2013.
The recent visit of Pope Francesco has turned the spotlight on the plight of the thousands of immigrants fleeing from war and deprivation in their own countries and who aspire to find a new life in Europe. Lampedusa, due to its position near the African coast, has become a favoured port of entry and the islanders have consistently demonstrated exceptional generosity and understanding in harbouring these people, who continue to arrive in great numbers.
The LampedusaInFestival concentrates on the theme of immigration in five days of films, documentaries, debates, exhibitions and musical events all centred on this subject. The Festival is organized by the Askavusa Association, with the support of numerous volunteers.
The yearly competition of films, documentaries and shorts on the theme of emigration, with over 80 entries from all over the world, will be available for public viewing between the 20-23 July. This year's edition explores the reasons behind the decision to leave one's own country.
For the first time, the work which is judged the most useful for the promotion of immigrants' rights will receive a special prize from Amnesty International Italia.
In addition, the Festival features concerts, theatrical performances, as well as an exhibition by Palestinian artist Emily Jacir in the Museum of Immigration of Lampedusa and neighbouring island Linosa.
Info: www.lampedusainfestival.com info@lampedusainfestival.com
