Music as a tool of inclusion. The Consulate of Italy Consulate in Detroit organized a series of events on Monday, February 12, with the Roman rapper Amir Issaa. Through his words and his beats, he promoted the values of diversity and the fight against all forms of discrimination. It was a light-hearted and innovative opportunity to approach serious topics, managing to involve a large segment of the Italian and non-Italian audience.

This daylong event was organized to celebrate Black History Month at Wayne State University, where the Consulate's past initiatives (such as the Black Italian Film Festival) have always been particularly successful. A large audience of young students and adult spectators, all interested in listening to the music and testimony of Amir Issaa animated the three moments that characterized the initiative.

The day's program began in the morning with a workshop in which the singers showed how rap is a form of poetry, and involved those present in creating their own verses. In addition to the students of the Italian program at Wayne State University, those from Michigan State University and the University of Michigan connected remotely as well. Members of the Italian cultural organization Dante Alighieri Society of Michigan were also invited and present. Led by a hip-hop track, first Consul Baistrocchi (with a fun rap about consular services), then students, and other participants created rhymes they invented during the workshop.

The day continued in the afternoon with the presentation of the book "I live for this", written by Issaa, at the University of Michigan, which was followed by an interesting exchange with the students on experiences and inspirations.

Grand finale with the rapper's free concert in front of an enthusiastic audience at Wayne State Unviersity. The artist performed his main songs. His concert, and the messages of Issaa’s lyrics focusing on the artist’s experience growing up as an Italian with an Egyptian parent, were highly appreciated.