From November 9 to 17, Florence and Providence will unite for the “Splendor of Florence, Sott’Acqua” festival to raise awareness about climate change by reflecting on catastrophic floods in both cities’ histories. The event will feature discussions, film screenings, and community engagement activities to foster understanding and action regarding climate resilience.
PROVIDENCE, RI — The cities of Florence, Italy, and Providence, Rhode Island, are collaborating to address climate change through the upcoming festival, “Splendor of Florence, Sott’Acqua: A Tale of Two Cities Underwater,” taking place from November 9 to 17. This event seeks to raise awareness of the pressing issues brought on by climate change, specifically focusing on the catastrophic flooding experienced in Florence in 1966 and the devastation caused by Hurricane Carol in Rhode Island in 1954. Hurricane Carol, which struck Rhode Island, was one of the most severe storms in the state’s history, claiming 19 lives and causing widespread devastation. Providence was submerged in 12 feet of water due to relentless winds and storm surges, resulting in property damages exceeding $200 million and displacing around 4,000 homes. Joyce Acciaioli Rudge, the founder and creative director of the festival, has articulated her hope that the week’s programs will enhance public awareness of climate issues and potentially inspire action to mitigate these challenges. Ruth Davis, the coordinator for Splendor of Florence, echoed her sentiments by highlighting concerns over increasing instances of flooding and severe weather events experienced across the United States. The festival is supported by several notable sponsors, including Brown University, the Rhode Island School of Design, and Save The Bay, among others. This initiative coincides with the renewal of a Friendship Pact between Florence and Providence, celebrating 25 years of cultural ties. A series of engaging events, including community conversations on climate vulnerability, a film screening focusing on historical floods, expert panel discussions on workforce readiness regarding climate action, and educational exhibits, are planned for the festival. These events will not only promote cultural exchange but also emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing climate challenges. The keynote panel discussion will be moderated by former New York Times science editor Cornelia Dean, who will guide discussions on critical themes surrounding climate resilience and justice. Additional activities such as a photo exhibit, interactive sessions with marine life, art workshops, and a master class in Italian opera render this festival a multifaceted approach to combining arts, culture, and climate activism.
The collaborative festival, “Splendor of Florence, Sott’Acqua,” aims to spotlight historical flooding events and their impact on communities in both Florence and Providence. The festival’s focus on climate change stems from the increasing frequency of natural disasters, necessitating urgent discussions on resilience and adaptation strategies. By offering a platform for cultural exchange and community engagement, the festival strives to enlighten participants about the dire consequences of climate change while fostering international friendship and collaboration.
The “Splendor of Florence, Sott’Acqua: A Tale of Two Cities Underwater” festival serves as a significant platform for raising awareness about climate change through the exploration of shared historical challenges faced by Florence and Providence. This weeklong event, enriched with discussions and artistic expressions, emphasizes the necessity for collective action and resilience strategies amid rising climate threats, reinforcing the enduring friendships between these two culturally rich cities.
Original Source: ecori.org
