Pro Bono Vs. Stereotypes against Sicily
Pro bono work, meaning "for the public good," is legal assistance provided free of charge to support causes of significant social, cultural, or economic importance.
It is well known that, for many directors and film companies, associating the mafia and Sicily is a sure shot. In the long term, this had devastating effects for the Sicilian identity in the collective imagination worldwide.
For years, our firm has been deeply committed to pro bono initiatives aimed at combating all forms of stereotyping, cultural and identity-based racism, misrepresentation, bias, prejudice and defamation affecting Sicily, its global image, and its Community.
This work is not only about safeguarding Sicily’s cultural identity and brand but also about addressing the widespread side effect of the economic damage caused on Sicilian products, services, and businesses by those defamatory misrepresentations.
Our Commitment
Our pro bono advocacy began in 2019 when we successfully intervened against an inappropriate advertisement by a well-known low-cost airline from an European country. The airline, in promoting a new flight route to Sicily, irresponsibly depicted the Island with defamatory content and improper references to crime.
With the support of Italian diplomatic representatives abroad, we were able to have the advertisement removed, setting a precedent for protecting Sicily’s image on the global stage.
Since then, we have continued to fight against misleading and harmful messages that distort Sicily’s reputation. We are steadfast in our mission to ensure that the Island’s rich cultural heritage and identity are represented with the dignity and respect they deserve.
How to Report a Case
If you come across messages, advertisements, or campaigns that misrepresent Sicily or its communities, we encourage you to notify us through our Contact Form. Please provide a detailed description of the issue and include any supporting evidence, such as weblinks or photographs.
Our Approach
Discretionary Selection: Our pro bono work is carried out on a fully discretionary basis. We focus on cases that pose a serious risk to Sicily’s image and reputation. They must present high profiles of collective utility. The firm cannot take on individual cases on a pro bono basis
No Implied Approval: The absence of action by our firm in certain cases should never be interpreted as approval or tolerance of the reported defamatory content.
By taking a stand against defamatory narratives, we aim to protect not just Sicily’s identity but also the livelihoods of its people and the integrity of its global brand.
Contact us if you believe there is a case that requires our attention. Together, we can help preserve the dignity and value of Sicily on the world stage.