How the idea of “Widespread Acerenza around Italy and the World Project” came to be
“I have lived for many years away from Acerenza and yet I have held onto an affection that brings me back to this village. I keep in touch with what is happening in the community and any projects for its development.I belong, therefore, to that goodly group of non-resident Acheruntini, who with their birthplace maintain ties made from memories, affections or nostalgia.This “Widespread Acerenza around Italy and the World”, created by the Acheruntini by birth or stock, who live in Milan, Turin, Rome but also in France, Belgium, Canada or Argentina, can be added to the “Acerenza residents”.But this “Widespread Acerenza around Italy and the World” must be probed, identified and involved in a project of cultural development of their birthplace, after having comprehended the needs for reunion.It is necessary to get our young generation involved in all this!During the summer period, families of Acerenza could think about putting up the children (or grandchildren) of some of our fellow citizens who live in Italy or abroad and who have never actually seen the birthplace of their relatives or forefathers.During their stay, they could learn Italian. The local school could be involved in some form of didactic activity in teaching our language.Then the following summer, perhaps, our young people will be guests abroad with their new friends who live and are a part of “Widespread Acerenza around Italy and the World”.In this way, a bond of reunion can be renewed but with “new, young fellow citizens”.Therefore, I am speaking out to all the Acheruntini who, like me, do no longer live in Acerenza, but have intentions of “reuniting” to experience once again the feeling of being a vital part of the birthplace Community.We must take a census, we must count ourselves, we must single ourselves, and we must get to know each other!I personally intend to go ahead with this enterprise which has already gained the support of numerous Acheruntini, who live far away. But there is also the support of many of our fellow citizens who live in Acerenza.My invitation is to contact me and let me know about our fellow citizens or their descendants who can be included in this project.”