Today, as Malta commemorates the solemn events of Sette Giugno, the historical parallels to our present-day struggles with the rising cost of living are becoming increasingly stark. On this day in 1919, the Maltese people, driven by desperation over soaring food prices and stagnant wages, rose up in protest against the colonial authorities. The core of their grievance was simple: a day’s work could no longer guarantee a family’s daily bread.
Now, over a century later, the echoes of their cries resonate in our communities. While the circumstances are different, the fundamental anxiety of making ends meet is a familiar burden for at least one out of four in our country.
The cost of basic necessities, from groceries to housing, continues to climb, placing a significant strain on household budgets. For a sizable amount of our population, wages are struggling to keep pace, creating a modern-day reality where the fear of falling behind is a constant presence.
Momentum Chairperson, Arnold Cassola, stated: “The uprising of 1919, a pivotal moment in our nation’s journey towards self-governance, which kicked off in 1921, was a tragic but powerful demonstration that when the economic foundations of a society are shaken, the people will demand to be heard. It serves as a potent reminder of the inherent link between economic justice and social stability.
This raises a crucial and uncomfortable question for our time: Do we have to undergo an economic crisis for people to rise up and fight for the rights of the community?
The legacy of Sette Giugno is not merely a historical event to be remembered; it is a living testament to the Maltese spirit of resilience and the unwavering demand for a life of dignity. As we honour the memory of those who sacrificed their lives, let us also reflect on the lessons learnt.
May the courage of the Sette Giugno inspire a proactive and united effort to address the economic challenges of our time, ensuring that the well-being of all members of our community is at the forefront of our national agenda. Let the spirit of Sette Giugno be a catalyst for dialogue and action, not a prelude to another socio-economic crisis”.
TimesOfMalta coverage:
https://timesofmalta.com/article/momentum-draws-parallels-sette-giugno-anger-modernday-malta.1111073
