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Italian Preschool Mosque Visit Faces Political Backlash and Ministerial Inspection

A Catholic preschool's intercultural educational project is under scrutiny as officials defend its compliance with national guidelines and parental consent.

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Overview

  • Children from Santa Maria delle Vittorie preschool visited a mosque in Susegana as part of an educational initiative promoting cultural and religious diversity.
  • The visit included an explanation of Muslim prayer practices, with children kneeling to experience prayer positions under the guidance of Imam Avnija.
  • The school and parish leaders confirmed that parents were informed in advance and gave full consent for the activity.
  • Right-wing political leaders, including Matteo Salvini, criticized the visit as ideological, prompting the Ministry of Education to launch an inspection into regulatory compliance.
  • Local parents and educators have publicly defended the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with national guidelines and its aim to foster mutual understanding and respect.