The fight against corruption is a never-ending battle, one that requires those at the forefront to be strong and innovative in their approach. For Italian journalist claudio La camera, this meant harnessing the power of art to bring about change in the country’s organized crime syndicate.
La camera‘s work as a journalist, author and activist is focused on investigating and exposing the N’Drangheta, a mafia-like criminal organization that is based primarily in southern Italy. Through his project, Kulturrevolution gegen die Mafia (Cultural Revolution Against the Mafia), he uses art as a tool to break down organized crime.
The project began in 2016, and since then, La camera has taken it around the world. He partners with local artists, actors and musicians to create artistic interventions and performances that challenge the mafia’s status quo. He also organizes lectures, film screenings and other events to boost public awareness of the N’Drangheta’s activities.
La camera has also established the museo della ndrangheta, a mobile museum dedicated to educating the public about the history and impact of the N’Drangheta. Through its exhibitions, the museum explores topics such as extortion, illegal auctions and the smuggling of illegal goods. The museum has already been featured in numerous exhibitions around the world, including in Canada, the United States, Germany and France.
The project has not been without its challenges. La camera was accused of being a member of the mafia in 2018, and has been through a lengthy court process. Despite being acquitted of all charges, the legal proceedings have been incredibly draining and costly. Despite this, he remains determined to continue with the project.
Through his activism, La camera has highlighted the devastating effects of organized crime and sparked important conversations about how to tackle the issue. His work not only serves as a powerful reminder of how art can be used to fight corruption, it also shows that ordinary citizens have the power to take a stand and make a difference.
As La camera has said, “We can never accept what the mafia does. We can never sign a pact of silence. We must keep fighting, even when we don’t know what the outcome will be.” By continuing to work on Kulturrevolution gegen die Mafia, La camera is a shining example of using art to challenge injustice and fight for a better future.
