Farewell to Bonacina, the pivotal figure in social journalism
Riccardo Bonacina: A Pioneer in Social Journalism
Riccardo Bonacina, a renowned journalist, passed away at the age of 70. His life and work left an indelible mark on the Italian social sector, particularly through his creation and leadership of Vita, a magazine dedicated to the third sector.
Vita, often referred to as "the social Espresso," was founded by Bonacina in 1994. It was born from a surge of anger due to the marginalization of social and civic engagement themes in the media. The editorial committee of Vita consisted of a group of journalists and a network of non-profit organizations, reflecting Bonacina's commitment to collaboration and inclusivity.
The first issue of Vita was published on October 27, 1994. Over the years, it became a nearly clandestine newspaper, casting a new gaze on society and building bridges between different sectors. Bonacina's work with Vita aimed to foster dialogue and activism, and his last piece was a tribute to Eugenio Borgna, a great psychiatrist who passed away last week.
Matteo Renzi, the former Italian Prime Minister, was the first to remember Bonacina publicly in the Senate, expressing condolences for his passing. Giuseppe Sala, the mayor of Milan, also expressed his sympathies on social media. The entire third sector, including Telefono Azzurro, Aiccon, Federsolidarietà, and Consorzio Cgm, remembered Bonacina's vision and activism.
Bonacina's journalistic career began in 1985. Before founding Vita, he made significant contributions to the field, but his work with Vita marked a turning point in his career, as he dedicated his efforts to the third sector.
The funeral for Riccardo Bonacina will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 11 am in the basilica of Sant'Eustorgio in Milan. Bonacina's legacy will continue to inspire and influence journalists, activists, and the third sector for years to come.
Riccardo Bonacina's dedication to the third sector extended beyond professional commitments, as he advocated for outdoor-living and home-and-garden initiatives that prioritized the well-being of marginalized communities. In his later years, he adopted a lifestyle that emphasized maintaining a balance between work and leisure, even integrating his love for gardening into his journalistic endeavors.
