Orta Nova, Italy | 08–15.07.2024
From July 8th to 15th, 2024, the small town of Orta Nova, nestled in southern Italy, became a vibrant hub of activism, creativity, and youth empowerment. Under the Erasmus+ programme and co-funded by the European Union, the “Spray It Away Now!” youth exchange gathered participants from various European countries for a powerful artistic journey against hate speech, discrimination, and intolerance.
This unique project offered young people the opportunity to transform their voices into action, using art as a tool for social change and intercultural dialogue.
Graffiti, dialogue, and solidarity: a week of meaningful expression
Over the course of eight days, the participants immersed themselves in an intense yet joyful programme of non-formal education, intercultural workshops, and creative sessions. At the heart of the experience was the use of graffiti art as a peaceful protest a language that transcends words and speaks directly to the soul.
The group explored the origins and forms of hate speech, shared personal stories and reflections, and learned how to recognise and stand up against it through collaborative exercises and facilitated dialogue.
Evenings were dedicated to intercultural exchange, strengthening the bonds between participants through national presentations, shared meals, and moments of laughter.
Empowering youth to challenge hate and celebrate diversity
The project aimed to:
– Inspire young people to take action against hate speech, xenophobia, and racism.
– Promote critical thinking and active citizenship. Raise awareness about the impact of discrimination in our societies.
– Foster intercultural understanding through creativity-based activities. Build a supportive European community of young voices advocating for human rights.
– Equip participants with tools to fight back through visual expression and civic engagement.
– Share their messages through public presentations and graffiti artworks within the local Italian community.
Olympia:
The program was about hate speech, which is so usual in our everyday life but at the same time it is very much unknown. During the activities and discussions, I learnt how to recognise it and fight it. I met many new amazing people, with strong and different opinions, willing to participate and help make a change. We were working in groups and everyone contributed in their own, unique way. It was a lifetime experience, that definitely changed my point of view in life.
Joana:
“It was fascinating to meet so many young people from diverse countries and backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives. The workshops I attended were not only well-organized but also engaging, fostering an environment of active participation. I appreciated how the group shared their opinions respectfully, encouraging meaningful dialogue. On a personal level, I gained valuable insights into the different forms of racism that exist in various countries, and it deepened my understanding of the importance of being open-minded and embracing tolerance towards the differences that make each of us unique.”
Tilemahos:
“We all came out of it slightly better people and citizens than we were before, we build special bonds with many people and learned about other cultures and nations. We all stood up against hate speech through our conversations and actions. It was very educational and fun at the same time, a goal that non formal education seems to accomplish more easily than anything else!”
Dimosthenis:
“This Erasmus experience targeted on hate speech was at least transformative. We connected with people from different countries exploring the impact of hate speech through our discussions and workshops. Together we used graffiti art among others in order to promote tolerance and inclusion and fight discrimination. A very unique experience that motivated us to fight in order to see the desired changes.”
Elissavet:
“I met wonderful people from different countries and cultures, with whom I shared common concerns on the issue through discussions and creative activities. One of the highlights was a graffiti workshop, where we used art to express powerful messages. It was a meaningful experience that made me think even more deeply about the problem of hate speech.”
The graffiti murals created during the exchange were not just artistic outputs
they were statements. Bold words like “LOVE,” “FIGHT FOR PEACE,” “BEYOND BORDERS”, and “SPRAY IT AWAY” captured the voices of youth standing up for justice, equity, and respect. Participants collaborated closely with local community members and showcased their final creations in a public exhibition.
Through color and creativity, the walls of Orta Nova became a gallery of hope and resilience.
The success of “Spray It Away Now!” was not just in its program, but in the spirit of collaboration, inclusion, and solidarity. The friendships forged, the personal growth sparked, and the shared mission to fight hate made this project one that participants will never forget.
As these young changemakers return home, they carry with them more than memories they carry tools, confidence, and the power of collective action.
Stay tuned with GO Alive to discover more youth exchanges and opportunities that combine creativity, learning, and social impact because together, we spray away hate and paint a brighter future.
