Two Christmas Days and Two Christmas Trees

Among the new restrictions and measures released by Italian Government after the entry into force of the DPCM of November 3, 2020 in order to fight the virus, there are at least two which may give a good idea of the era we live in. First, after closing theatres, dance schools, and any other kind of (non-profit) artistic, cultural, social and recreational associations, museums and exhibitions were closed too, although there was not much crowd around them. Secondly — and not less importantly — the expiry of the closure date of dance schools and studios was extended from November 24, 2020 (as ruled by the DPCM of October 24, 2020) to December 3, 2020 — so, quite paradoxically, it’s like they’re locking already locked doors and closing already closed windows. Peaceful demonstrations were held almost everywhere in the country, but with no other effect than a harshening of the restrictions. Furthermore, most industrial and commercial categories are immensely suffering from the public health emergency, and the country is at risk of falling into an unprecedented social crisis. The lack of accountability of the state — and of its employes, executives and legislators — is probably a big part of the problem of communication between the poors and riches. Philosopher and former Mayor of Venice, Massimo Cacciari, speaking at Piazzapulita on La7, put it quite clearly: “I want to say to my colleagues in the state and parastate that soon or later they’ll come to you too, inevitably. And I hope they will get there soon, because it is intolerable that only half the Italian population alone must pay for this crisis”.