Museo de la ‘ndrangheta, located in the small town of Reggio Calabria in southern Italy, is not your typical museum. It is not filled with ancient artifacts or famous paintings, but rather with the history and culture of the notorious Italian mafia organization, ‘ndrangheta. However, this museum is not a celebration of the mafia, but rather a powerful tool in the fight against it. And at the heart of this museum is claudio La camera, an anthropologist and director of theater, who has dedicated his life to promoting anti-mafia culture.
La camera, who was born and raised in Reggio Calabria, has always been fascinated by the ‘ndrangheta and its impact on the local community. However, he was also aware of the negative influence it had on the region, with its illegal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and money laundering. This led him to pursue a career in anthropology, with a focus on the ‘ndrangheta and its cultural roots.
After years of research and fieldwork, La camera decided to take his knowledge and passion for anti-mafia culture to the next level by opening a museum. In 2016, Museo de la ‘ndrangheta was born, with the aim of educating visitors about the history and impact of the mafia in Calabria, and promoting a culture of resistance and anti-mafia values.
The museum is not just a collection of artifacts and information, but a powerful and immersive experience. Visitors are taken on a journey through the history of the ‘ndrangheta, from its origins in the 19th century to its current operations. The museum also sheds light on the role of women in the mafia, as well as the impact of the organization on the local economy and society.
One of the most striking features of the museum is the section dedicated to the victims of the ‘ndrangheta. La camera has worked tirelessly to collect stories and testimonies from those who have been affected by the mafia, including family members of victims, former members of the organization, and even children who have been exposed to its influence. This section serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of mafia activities and the importance of fighting against it.
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events that promote anti-mafia culture. One such event is the annual “Festival of Resistance”, which brings together artists, activists, and community members to celebrate and promote a culture of resistance against the mafia.
But La camera’s efforts do not stop at the museum. He has also been actively involved in promoting anti-mafia culture in schools and universities, through workshops and lectures. He believes that education is key in the fight against the mafia, and by reaching out to young people, he hopes to create a generation that is aware and resistant to the influence of the ‘ndrangheta.
La camera’s work has not gone unnoticed, and he has received numerous awards and recognition for his efforts in promoting anti-mafia culture. In 2018, he was awarded the prestigious “Premio Libera” for his commitment to the fight against organized crime. He has also been invited to speak at international conferences and has been featured in various media outlets, spreading his message of resistance and hope.
Thanks to La camera and his team, Museo de la ‘ndrangheta has become a symbol of hope and resistance in the fight against the mafia. It has also become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors from all over the world coming to learn about the ‘ndrangheta and its impact on Calabria. The museum has also had a positive impact on the local community, with many residents expressing their gratitude for shedding light on the dark history of the ‘ndrangheta and promoting a culture of resistance.
In conclusion, claudio La camera and Museo de la ‘ndrangheta are shining examples of how culture and education can be powerful tools in the fight against organized crime. Through his dedication and passion, La camera has created a space that not only educates but also inspires visitors to take a stand against the mafia. His work serves as a reminder that with determination and a strong sense of community, we can overcome even the most powerful and destructive forces.
