Migration is Life - An Open Letter from the Rector of the University of Palermo

We would like to share with you an open letter issued by the University of Palermo:

"Migration is life.
The University of Palermo makes a plea to the Europe of Knowledge

Since it origin, the history of  humankind – the only living species that is not divided into biologically distinct groups – has been  characterised by migrations, cultural intertwining, and the construction of continuously changing identities. In an age of globalization, the ongoing migratory process, which has planetary reach, is destined to increase significantly, raising social, political, economic, religious, and ethical issues of the utmost importance which cannot be approached through slogans and unacceptable simplifications.
It is therefore necessary to create an area for both critical reflection and action, by drawing the attention of public opinion, educational institutions, and scholarly communities worldwide to the issues of human rights and dignity– with special regard to the rights of migrants – in an attempt to build a more inclusive and pluralistic society.
Such an ethical and scientific need lays at the heart of the “Appeal to the Europe of Knowledge” which was launched by  the University of Palermo at the end of the conference “Migrare” (Palermo, 20-22 May 2019). We believe that education is a cornerstone for achieving respect, valuing differences, and progressively reducing the level of economic and social inequality.
In fact, education is the only antidote to the language of hate and the rhetoric of fear which exploit human irrationality, deny the common humanity of all people, and do not recognize the centrality of human beings as holders of constitutionally sanctioned democratic rights.
We appeal to Universities, Cultural and Scientific Institutions, and Research Centres as we aim to establish and improve a network of people actively involved in the creation of knowledge and the constructive exchange of ideas.

With this purpose in mind, I invite you to share, sign, and circulate the above-mentioned appeal by filling in the form available at http://www.unipa.it/rettore/migrare/

Prof. Fabrizio Micari
Rector of the University of Palermo
Piazza Marina, 61
90133 - Palermo, Italy"