Back to the Origins: Exploring Identity, Discrimination and Digital Hate Speech in Venice

On 8 May 2026, Caleidoscopio Association participated in Back to the Origins, a community event hosted at CS Rivolta in Marghera (Venice), Italy. Bringing together young people, students, educators and youth workers, the initiative created a space for dialogue on Black identity, cultural appropriation, racism and discrimination, exploring how these issues are reflected and amplified in digital environments.

Led by Ndack Mbaye, trainer involved in the Erasmus+ project Generative AI – Youth Sector Challenges and Impact, and moderated by Brenda Ngandie and Anna Mballa, the panel explored the connections between cultural representation, social inequalities and online hate speech. Through an interactive discussion, participants reflected on how discriminatory narratives move between offline and online spaces, and on the importance of education, critical thinking and collective responsibility in challenging them.

The event also provided an opportunity to introduce AHAPP, the anti-hate mobile application developed within the Generative AI project, demonstrating how digital tools can support young people and youth workers in recognising harmful narratives and fostering more inclusive online interactions. By connecting technological innovation with community-based dialogue on identity and discrimination, the initiative extended the project’s reach to new local audiences and strengthened its contribution to digital citizenship and social inclusion.

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