Sicily is a land that cannot be understood without considering its migrations. For centuries, the island has been a place of departures, arrivals, and returns that have shaped its cultural, social, and economic identity. To truly grasp this complexity, it is essential to address the dynamics of mobility not only in numerical but also in qualitative terms, considering what these movements mean for the people involved and the territories they touch.

Since the unification of Italy, emigration has been a constant in Sicilian history. Millions have left the island in search of opportunities, bringing with them dreams, skills, and connections that, often, have remained vibrant over time. This diaspora is as much a testament to economic difficulties as it is to the extraordinary resilience and adaptability of Sicilians. But the story does not stop in the past. Even today, emigration remains significant, while new flows of immigration, returns, and temporary arrivals also redefine the island.

My experience of studying and living abroad has led me to reflect on how these migratory dynamics are not just economic or demographic phenomena, but fundamentally cultural and human. For instance, Sicilians returning, even temporarily, bring with them not only skills and resources but also a different perspective that can enrich the territory. Similarly, those arriving in Sicily, whether by choice or necessity, contribute to redefining the island’s cultural and social fabric.

Sicily between Departures, Returns, and New Opportunities: Reflections on a Moving Identity.

One of the aspects I find most inspiring is the concept of “differently present,” which describes those who, while not physically living in Sicily, maintain a profound connection with the land. This connection can be cultural, emotional, or even project-based. Fondazione Marea has set the ambitious goal of enhancing these connections, creating a space for those who wish to contribute to the island's future, regardless of their geographical location.

It is interesting to note how Sicily is not only a land of departures but also of arrivals. In recent decades, the presence of international migrants has grown, and often with great determination, they choose to invest in the island, contributing to revitalizing sectors such as agriculture, craftsmanship, and commerce. These new inhabitants not only enrich the economic fabric but also bring with them new cultures and perspectives, broadening the horizon of what it means to be Sicilian today.

However, to build meaningful dialogue among those who leave, those who stay, and those who arrive, it is necessary to overcome stereotypes. The emigrant is not just the “self-made man” who finds success abroad, just as those who remain are not merely symbols of resilience. Similarly, the immigrant is not simply a figure seeking help but often an entrepreneur or innovator. The complexity of migratory experiences deserves to be told in their entirety, with all their nuances.

One of the biggest challenges is thus to create an inclusive language that reflects the dynamic reality of human mobility. Terms like “migrant” or “foreigner” often carry negative connotations, fueled by a political and media narrative that does not always capture the richness and potential of migratory movements. Perhaps it is time to embrace concepts like “transnational circularity,” which highlight the fluid and interconnected nature of modern migrations.

Fondazione Marea, with its innovative approach, represents a concrete response to these challenges. Through building a community of pioneers, it aims to transform mobility into an opportunity for the territory. This means not only welcoming and valuing those who arrive but also keeping alive the connection with those who leave and creating spaces for return.

Ultimately, I believe that the future of Sicily depends on the ability to recognize and appreciate its diasporic nature. Migrations are not just a challenge but also an extraordinary resource for building a more inclusive and resilient identity. Through dialogue, understanding, and collective action, we can transform mobility into a driver of growth and innovation for the entire island.