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Rabat – Khaoula Kanjaoui, a Moroccan-Italian lawyer and candidate in the upcoming local elections in Maranello, Italy, has become the target of a barrage of online racist comments following her campaign introduction.
Kanjaoui, who specializes in immigration law, expressed her desire to contribute to the community by representing two cultures and leveraging her expertise for the public good.
However, her announcement triggered a wave of hateful responses on social media. She received comments such as “We are not in Africa, maybe you will find votes there,” and “Italy of the future in the hands of Islamists?” along with demands for her to “go back to your country.”
Kanjaoui is running for the city council on the “Italia del Futuro” list in the local elections scheduled for June 8 and 9.
In response to the racist attacks, Kanjaoui took to social media, stating, “Xenophobic comments stem from a political context that has spread hatred and intolerance. This is precisely why I believe my candidacy is necessary, as it represents a positive example of integration.”
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She emphasized the importance of combating negative stereotypes and changing the prevailing mindset. The Moroccan lawyer highlighted that most immigrants, like her parents, come to Italy seeking a dignified life through hard work.
The racist comments directed at Kanjaoui have been widely condemned by Italian politicians and civil society groups, who have praised her bravery and determination in the face of such hostility.
“Stay strong, Khaoula, we stand by you,” encouraged Governor Stefano Bonaccini, as reported by local outlet La Repubblica.
Kanjaoui embraced the support she has received, with the local outlet reporting her as saying: “I am happy about the solidarity I’ve received from so many people. I am glad that Italy is not all hatred, but I was genuinely shaken by this wave of hatred that hit me.”
She added, “I didn’t expect it; I thought Italy was ready for people like me, who were born elsewhere but have lived here all their lives.”
Born in Morocco, Kanjaoui arrived in Italy at one and a half years old and has since lived in Modena, Sassuolo, and Maranello.
