Original subtitles

Amira!

Mohammed!

Mohammed!

Abdullah!

Ibrahim!

Ibra!

Ibra!

Fatima! Fatima!

Fatima!

Fatima!

Abdul!

Fatima!

Oh, God.

Andrea.

-Hi, Adele. -What is it?

What do you mean? I'm here. Will you open up?

-But it's so early. Where are you? -At the door. Come on.

Tell me, what is the point of us being separated

if you show up at my house at 5:00 in the morning?

Come on, open up.

No. Why don't you have the keys that you kept with you?

Wait. "I take custody of migrant minors. They are my 480 children."

Good morning, Great Mother.

TAKING CUSTODY OF UNDERAGE MIGRANTS THEY'RE MY 480 CHILDREN

-Good morning. What is it? -Read, read.

Oh, the interview.

You have more children than I have delivered as a gynecologist.

You woke me up for that?

If I remember correctly,

exactly seven years ago, more or less, at this same hour,

you woke me up, "My water's broke. We must go to the hospital."

Oh, sure. You came to celebrate your daughter's birthday at 5:00 a.m.

I practically just left the delivery room. Twins.

I thought, "I'll surprise Silvia."

Assessor, let me in,

or must the entrance procedure for your ex-husband,

and father of your children, have to go through more clarification?

Come in.

I'll turn on the light.

The Great Mother!

Get ready, because that is what everyone will call you. "Great Mother."

I am only the tutor.

It's a journalistic term they made up. It has no importance.

-Ouch. -What is it? Does your neck hurt?

Want a nice massage? You know I'm good with my hands.

Andrea, are you making a pass at me?

Listen, I heard that even the minister is coming to sign the protocol.

Nice, right?

-I need coffee. You want one? -Here, there's hot croissants.

The minister being there in person is important. Aren't you happy?

Well, I'd say I am happy.

We've been working for two years to reach an agreement for everyone.

Lucky them. They saw you in these last two years.

Aside from the remarks,

there wasn't a law for unaccompanied minors.

Let's hope that after this is signed, there will be.

I am glad. Everyone should be.

-Why? Aren't you glad? -Don't look at me like that. I am too.

We are the first in Europe to think about a tutorial system

for foreign minors.

Do you realize that? Anyone will be able to take care of them.

Not to mention that I will have less youngsters to care of.

And maybe I will be a bit less "Great Mother",

and a bit more "small mother" for our children.

Mom, is it day already?

No, love. It's still nighttime. Go to sleep.

-Hi, Dad! -Hi, my love.

-Happy birthday. -How great that you're here!

Come on, love. It's still nighttime. You have to sleep a bit more.

When you get up, we'll celebrate. Okay?

Up you go!

Here we are.

-I'm not sleepy anymore, Dad. -Did Mr. Sleep leave?

What a rascal! I will call him now and tell him to come back.

That's it, Dad. Go look for Mr. Sleep out there.

-You can't trust anyone? -Mom, did you order the cake?

-Of course. -A cherry one?

-Yes. -Will you come to my party?

I'll do everything I can. I promise. As soon as I finish working, I'll come.

It's not right, Mom.

You always work. Even when it's my birthday.

You know you're the love of my life. I would spend all of my time with you.

But I have to make the city more beautiful, even today.

What will you do?

I was thinking of putting very soft

and fresh grass in place of the crosswalks.

So everyone crossing has to take off their shoes

and feel the soft grass under their feet.

-Do you like the idea? -Yes.

Mom, I can't wait to blow out the candles.

I have an incredible wish to make.

But you must not tell anyone or it won't come true.

Sleep now, my love.

Sleep!

And when you wake up, you'll be seven years old. Just think!

So…

There.

Andrea, it's better if Silvia and Marco don't see this.

Sooner or later you must tell your children what you really do.

Yes, but Silvia is too little and wouldn't understand.

Marco is a complete adolescent and he barely speaks to me.

-What it is, Caterina? -They are closing the Aurora Center.

No, I don't believe it.

The police are there. We didn't need this!

-We certainly didn't! -I have been here since 4:00.

Listen, give me a second. I'll put something on and come.

-Hey, Dad. -Hey! Hi, big boy.

-Why are you here at this hour? -It's your sister's birthday.

-At 5:00 in the morning? -Did we wake you?

-No. I was going to the bathroom. -I'm going.

-Where are you going? -They're closing the center.

See you later. You're coming to see me at the town hall?

No. I forgot to tell you. We're not doing the doc on you anymore.

Oh, no?

We're doing it on the father of a friend of mine who fixes scooters.

Nobody in class gives a darn about the assessor for social politics.

Good night!

I'm rushing because I want to be back in time to take the kids to school.

Ouch…

Listen, you don't want a massage, but at least put this on?

-I left breakfast on the table. -Perfect.

-All right? -Bye. Have a nice day.

PALERMO 11TH JUNE 2016

Temporary authorization has expired.

And the structure has not been authorized for a definitive function.

Excuse me. You're closing it at 5:00 in the morning, just like that?

There are 40 more people in there than allowed.

All the kids have to be transferred by tonight.

-No. Really, by tonight? -I am sorry. Those are the rules.

-Oh, sure. -Good morning.

-Everything okay, Adele? -Yes, yes.

But maybe my neck should sleep more.

I have some pills in the office that will be good for you.

Thanks.

What can I do?

I don't understand a thing!

What is this commotion?

What's with this commotion? I don't understand a thing!

How can I help you if I don't understand what you want? What is it?

We want to stay here!

I am trying to find a solution. That's all I do!

I am looking for-- Hey! Are you listening to me or not?

-We don't want to leave Palermo! -Right! We want to stay.

Kids, there has been a problem.

Today, a ship is arriving and the centers are all full.

We can't leave.

-I know you don't want to leave. -It's not that. It's that we can't!

The school has to stay together for the final.

-It's important! -That's right!

What is this final?

The final of the citizen tournament. They have their heart set on it.

We are in the final, we're playing next week.

-We have to stay together to train. -I see. You really care about it.

I'll ask you something.

Is the soccer final more important than finding a place to live?

-What are you doing? -I won't calm down! I won't calm down!

Take it easy!

-What are you doing? -You don't understand!

You want to take care of everyone, but you aren't good with anyone!

We worked hard on this!

-We bought the uniforms. -I know.

We take courses! We work!

-And now you want to take us away? -No.

But we won't move. We will not move!

We will stay!

We will not leave!

Have you finished?

First of all, don't you ever dare talk to me like that again.

Along with the social workers…

we will do our best to have you stay here in Palermo. Is that clear?

By tonight!

So there is very little time.

Instead of helping me in doing this, you are having me waste time.

-Is that clear? -Go on!

-Go away! -Come, Adele. Let's go to the girls.

Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

Shame!

The owner of the center hasn't been found yet.

It seems he's not in Italy.

Oh, sure. Enjoying the easy money he makes here, right?

-As soon as he comes back-- -If he comes back.

Right. I want to have a chat with him.

I want to tell him what a mess he's got us into.

-Hi to everyone! -Hi!

Adele!

-Gethru! Hi, how are you? -I'm fine, and you?

Fine. A bit of a neck ache. I had a bad dream.

-Rania is not well. -Rania is not well? Where is she now?

She's still in bed and doesn't want to get up.

Take me to her.

She's over here.

Rania?

Rania.

Little one.

How are you?

Not well.

When is the delivery due?

-In a week. -Is she having her checkups?

Yes, every day.

Where does it hurt?

She is afraid.

Thank you, little one.

Let's call an ambulance and hospitalize her.

Just to be safe.

-I'll call it. -Yes.

At least in the hospital they will know what to do.

Yes, let's do that.

Rania.

You will go to the hospital with Chiara now. Don't be afraid.

-You come with me. -No, I can't.

Don't be afraid.

I'll come by to see you today. I promise.

Excuse me. Come on.

-I'm going. -Yes, Chiara, go on.

-Bye. -Bye.

-Will you sign for the minor? -Yes, I am her tutor.

Caterina, we have to do something.

Let's think of someone who can give us a hand.

Will we be able to keep the boys here, at least?

I don't know. There are 20. It's a lot.

-There isn't a lot of time. -I know there's a lot of them.

But we have all day. Let's make it be enough.

I am rushing off now. I want to take Silvia to school.

All right. See you at town hall. You're not coming dressed like that?

Was I supposed to get dressed up when they cleared the place?

No, but at least turn your shirt over. It's inside out!

No! Darn it!

I don't believe it.

-One minute. It's my daughter's birthday. -I'm sorry, but you can't come in.

-Silvia! Silvia! -The first bell has already rung.

-You can't enter. I am sorry. -Excuse me.

Ouch! Silvia, love!

-You can't go inside. -Happy birthday, my love!

-Too bad. You almost made it. -Almost.

She didn't even smile at me. Nothing.

-She didn't read the paper, did she? -Yes.

She did? You let her read it?

You said you'd take it and you left it at home.

-You should have taken it from her! -She found it before I did.

Your picture was on it. She had her brother read it to her.

-Did you see what happened? -What could I do?

Tell her, "No, you can't read it"? It would've been worse.

-She didn't even say hi to me. -Let's go have coffee.

-Sure! I've got a million things to do! -Adele.

You better find time for coffee, because I have to talk to you.

Thank you.

You keep on not understanding that if you don't help me, nobody will.

-I don't help you? -No, you don't.

-You should've explained it to her. -I did explain it to her.

But she doesn't understand why they call you mother.

She doesn't understand why you call those kids your children.

You know how much Silvia suffers because you're never around.

We've discussed it.

-Yes, we've discussed it. -But nothing changes.

In fact, things are getting worse. You come home even later.

I come home later because there are lots of arrivals.

Unaccompanied minors have increased. So I have more work.

What do you think I can do? Do I have a magic wand?

This time Silvia is really angry.

Now she says you're never home because you live in another house.

With other children that you take care of instead of her.

You feed them, wash them, have them do homework.

You put them to bed and tell them bedtime stories.

While she has to do these things with the babysitter or your mother.

Being a tutor does not just mean signing documents.

I have to meet the kids.

I have to find out what is best for their future.

Fine. Explain that to her. Involve your daughter.

See what happens when she finds out by herself?

If I explain what I do with these kids,

I have to also explain where they come from, what they ran away from.

All right. If you think it's better to exclude her from your life, go ahead.

I just want to protect her.

I don't want a girl who is still so young,

wake up at night with nightmares thinking that the world is just war,

disease, famine, death, rape.

That's what the children her age go through. Is that clear?

Is it bad that I don't want my daughter to live in fear?

Nor can you have her live in a fairy tale

where her mother goes around for work painting the streets pink!

Today is her birthday. Don't go to work.

Surprise her. Take her to the seaside. Spend some time with her.

I am sure that will be the nicest gift of all for her.

She'll start trusting you again.

You know what she told me today? "I don't want Mom at my party!"

-She said that? -Yes.

She said, "I don't want people I hate at my party!"

Come on! Over here! Stop!

A man clutched to the helm of a mercantile boat is saved

by the men of the Coast Guard.

Come on!

-The route is being taken again… -You said a cherry cake?

Yes, yes, a cherry cake.

Add whipped cream, chocolate, and cream. She really likes cream.

I can't believe she's going to be seven. She is a big girl!

…was the comment of a representative of the Palermo City Council

where, even today, at the port, another landing is expected.

Come on. That's it! Easy, careful.

Massimo!

I had imagined it.

But seeing it installed like this has an incredible impact. It's wonderful.

It was your idea to put it like this, face down.

I've done a lot of installations, but nobody had ever thought of it.

Come, I will show you something. If we stand here, right below…

You see?

We are looking at them just as they looked at me

when I photographed them.

It's true.

You did a great job.

I think this image is worth more than a thousand speeches.

-The proxy. -Thanks.

-May I? -Yes, come, Caterina.

What is it?

-I even changed! -At least you've done that.

You will have no peace. Everyone is talking about this article.

Don't you start too, Caterina!

The radio, television, papers are calling.

They want to interview you about today's article on the Great Mother.

-Everyone read it. -The problem is my daughter read it too.

Silvia?

She was shocked.

She really thinks that I have 480 children.

And that everything I told her about my job--

Yes, the pink streets, the rainbow…

She thinks they are all excuses

that I made up to be with the other children.

Don't worry. It is just an instinctive reaction.

She said that she hates me.

To say something like that… You know I live for my children.

I know that.

But you know that one often says the opposite of what one thinks.

She is saying that because she loves you.

-Today's appointments-- -The ones after signing the protocol?

Yes. Postpone them all.

Yes. I have to talk to Silvia.

It is too important.

Wait a minute. Wait. I brought the pills I promised you.

It is a natural remedy.

-There's devil's claw, pineapple-- -Oh, yes, yes.

I trust you, I trust you. If it comes from you, it means it works.

Let's begin.

This is the request of the Osvaldi family for the home.

I already met with them.

Yes, but they said you didn't keep your promise.

You should see them right away, because they seemed pis…

Say it, Caterina. Were they pissed off?

-Very determined. -Determined, yes.

They even said they're organizing a protest.

-Perfect. I'll see them next week. -All right.

Kimberly, the girl from Somalia.

-Spinal cord operation? -Yes.

Poor little girl.

And there is the meeting with the social workers for the retirement home.

-Because senior citizens-- -Okay, put them on the agenda--

Oh, no! Call them!

Maybe they have room for the Aurora boys. The soccer team.

-Yes, great idea. -They seemed very…

What did you just say?

-Determined. -Yes, really pissed off.

One last thing. Eighteen girls from the center could leave for Ragusa.

-They still have to confirm it. -Good.

I must tell you, they are not happy about leaving Palermo.

I'm even less happy.

But until they approve temporary custody, there is no chance of staying in Palermo.

Excuse me.

-It's Carlo from the Montevergini Theater. -Yes. I'll talk to him.

-Hello, Adele? -Hi.

That lunatic, Kalif, climbed up on top of a building with a girl.

What? Is he in danger?

No, but he won't come down unless he talks to you first.

Come, please. We have to get on with the rehearsal.

All right. I'll come when I finish.

-I'll be waiting. -Bye.

Navigators come from everywhere

at the command of ships, vessels, big boats.

They enter Mother Palermo without knocking.

The Palermo Christians seemed to be sleeping.

They seemed to be dreaming.

But, no, they were dead.

-Adele, good thing you came. -Oh, Carlo.

We are late. I can't interrupt rehearsals. And those two have to get down.

-I had the girls' parents come. -The parents.

Good morning. I am Mauro Crivello. We are Vittoria's parents.

Vittoria. Vittoria is Juliet up there, right?

Kalif is a hothead. You know that.

-He doesn't respect the rules. -He does what he wants. I know.

-May I speak with them for two seconds? -Go ahead.

Excuse me. Excuse me if I interrupt. Kids, will you tell me what happened?

We want to get married.

-Really? -Yes.

Will you do me a favor, please?

Can you come down? I have a neck ache and I can't raise my head.

No, we won't come down.

First, we want Vittoria's parents and you to sign off on our marriage.

Yes. We won't come down if we don't have your permission.

Don't think it's Kalif's idea, because it's mine.

I take full responsibility.

They say if we don't give them permission, they'll run away. We can't stop them.

How exaggerated! It's like going back to my grandparents' days.

-Yeah! -Kalif doesn't have his ID yet.

And he's afraid that when he turns 18, they won't let him stay in Italy.

If they send Kalif away, I am going with him.

Did you hear her? We don't know what to do!

Kids, I can't sign off on your marriage.

-Why not? -Thank heavens!

We didn't want to be the ones to say no.

But there is good news! Mr. and Mrs. Crivello…

do you feel up to becoming Kalif's tutors?

-How can we? -You will soon have the chance

of signing up for the volunteer tutors' list.

So Kalif would stay in your home and be your responsibility.

And if you want to welcome him into your family,

we can begin the custody procedure.

Well?

Does it seem like an acceptable solution?

It's all right with us. What matters is that we can be together.

What about you, Dad?

What can I say?

-All right, all right. -Good for you, Dad.

If they are roses, they will bloom!

-Good morning, Judge. -Good morning.

Look what I brought you.

Do you want to celebrate the signing of the protocol today?

God willing, I'll have more time for my children.

Let's hope that there really are volunteer tutors in Palermo.

-Right now, we've only imagined them. -I am optimistic.

Let's see how our beloved city reacts.

I am sure that many will adhere, both here and in all of Italy!

-All right. -Taste it.

Today is even my daughter's birthday.

Thank you, but I try avoiding sweets.

So I have 64 kids I have to relocate somewhere as of tonight.

-Yes. Yes. -Because the Aurora Center closed.

And now they want to scatter them around Sicily.

-I know. -There is no more room in Palermo.

And the available places are for the next minors arriving.

Sure.

So what do you want from me?

We have to find a way for them to stay in Palermo.

-Yes! Of course! -Yes.

Many of them have begun professional courses,

Italian school, theater, the soccer team.

And if they change cities, it'll all be over!

I mean, Palermo invests in them and then they lose them?

-Mrs. Cucci-- -Yes, yes, I know what you want to say.

But you must understand that I know all these kids, one by one.

I know their stories, their problems. How can I go to them and say,

"You're changing cities. Another assessor will follow you. Goodbye"?

Listen, Great Mother, you are taking this too much to heart.

We have an emergency and must adjust to the situation.

Let them move. Others will arrive today, tomorrow.

Don't insist.

-Know what I was thinking? -No. What?

A temporary custody.

I know. You'll say that it's impossible to do by today, by tonight.

What will you do?

Put up stalls in the street and give custody to passersby?

Come on! Without a list of tutors we don't know who to turn to.

I'm sorry.

Let's hurry and sign this protocol.

Which do you think…

is the sweetest?

This one.

-Hey, kids. Where are you going? -To Assessor Cucci.

-Do you have an appointment? -Yes. He is her son.

You're the Great Mother's son!

Which one of the 480?

Come on. This guy is an idiot!

This place is a lot cooler than my dad's repair shop!

Come on. Let's do this interview and then we are free. Come on!

-May I? -Yes, Adele. Come.

-Good morning, Mayor. -Good morning.

It is 10:00 in the morning and I feel like I've been awake for two days!

-They cleared the place at 5:00 a.m. -I know. They told me.

We are working on relocating the kids.

But I fear we must move them outside of Palermo.

I bought copies for all the councilors because I want them to read it.

There's quite the coverage. We're changing Palermo's image, aren't we?

Let's say we're trying very hard.

You remember who sat here, historically, before me?

-Everyone knows. -Sit down.

One can't talk about Palermo without talking about the Mafia.

I must tell you that there's a problem.

Right. In fact.

The prefect called to say the minister is not coming.

What?

He said there was a change of plans.

You know, an emergency.

But we will sign anyway?

The prefect says that the minister cares about being present.

And frankly, I care too. You should care too.

Yes, I care very much, but I don't think he's indispensable.

We cannot afford to postpone the signing.

I know. I organized it all for today.

Yes, yes. But it's not a matter of today or tomorrow.

The issue is every day unaccompanied minors are increasing.

Do you remember how the idea of making a list of voluntary tutors started?

Of course I do! You came in here saying, "Mayor, I need help!"

And you know why I said, "Mayor, I need help"?

For the 500 minors that you take care of.

If we keep on postponing the list of tutors…

I will continue being alone.

I work on Saturday, Sunday, in the evening.

My children don't see me anymore!

And that is not good for them, and it's not good for me!

I understand.

My little girl is so angry with me

that she doesn't even want me at her birthday party.

I'm sorry, Adele.

But who will tell the prefect?

These are Giuseppe Garibaldi's weapons. Down here.

These are the weapons Napoleon Bonaparte

gave to Admiral Gravina. Beautiful?

You're here?

They came to the office looking for you. I showed them some things.

-You did the right thing. -I'll leave them with you.

It's confirmed that the first 18 girls are leaving for Ragusa.

-As for the others, no news. -All right. We'll wait.

-See you later. Bye, everyone. -See you later.

-Weren't you going to the workshop? -Unfortunately not.

The teacher decided, but it's fine with me.

We'll interview you and leave. Don't worry.

Then let's get moving.

-Hi, Blessin! -Hi.

Hi!

-Come, Sonia! -I'm coming!

Sonia, I don't know if there will be an orchard to plant them.

It doesn't matter. I'll plant them somewhere.

You are lucky today.

-There's the town hall council meeting. -How fortunate!

What is the town hall council meeting?

It's practically the town's government.

The councilors, assessors and the mayor meet to decide what to do.

Are you the assessor to Social Politics?

-Exactly. -What does that mean?

That she's a mother to the whole city except my sister and me.

I'm sorry. You shouldn't have read that article.

But above all, you shouldn't have had your sister read it!

Everyone read it, Mom.

That is why the teacher made us come here.

I'm sorry that you were forced to come.

But you are here now, so what can you do? Come.

I am already late for the session.

MAYOR GO HOME!

Mayor, go home!

All thieves! All thieves!

TOO MANY HOMES WITHOUT PEOPLE TOO MANY PEOPLE WITHOUT HOMES

Colleagues, before facing the minutes on the agenda,

I wanted to inform you

that the protocol we've worked on for such a long time is finally ready.

As we all know, Italy, but above all, Palermo…

is facing a huge, enormous problem.

So it was necessary to unite our small thoughts,

our small resources, to become something big.

This protocol is a decisive step…

towards hospitality that is more respectful of human rights!

We want to talk to you!

With the mayor.

CUCCI, GREAT MOTHER, EVEN WE, YOUR CHILDREN, WANT A HOME.

With the assessor of the hospitality of the city.

What is it? What is it?

Bravo! Great!

Not great, fantastic!

And we, the people of Palermo, what will we do without a home?

We know all too well that there is a housing emergency.

And we are doing everything we can to solve it in the best way possible.

We did all we could! Assessor!

Great Mother!

We signed up to the lists!

To the lists.

FIGHTING FRONT FOR A HOME

Points!

And nothing happened!

FAKE REFUGEES REAL PROFIT

Nothing at all!

In fact, Mayor, the people protesting today

are those that I've met many times during these past few months.

And we are already working to find a long-term solution.

What?

-But what can we do? -What kind of question is that?

Accompany this gentleman outside, please. And remove that banner!

Come on, hurry!

One thing doesn't exclude the other. You know that very well.

Immigrants have a right to hospitality, just as you have a right to a home!

Yes, but as a citizen of Palermo, I have more rights!

You are not doing anything for us!

-Move! -Come on.

Why don't you open the borders and let them all in?

You don't know how to do this job!

-Mayor. -What is it?

They called me. Should I go to the port or resign?

Resign? Go on. I will join you.

-President, let's go on. -Marco, quickly. Let's go!

Let's give the word to Assessor Giannutri.

-Adele, wait! -No, kids, I have to go to the port.

Go back to school. We'll do the interview later.

We're coming with you. We'll do it in the car while we go.

No, you don't understand.

There was a landing. It is not something for kids.

Excuse me, but don't you work with kids?

-Can we start asking you some questions? -Yes.

Okay. Why did you become an assessor?

Actually, I was already working in the social sector,

in a coop that dealt with children and youngsters,

-especially from the outskirts. -What does your job entail?

I deal with immigration, families, old people…

and minors, both Italian as well as foreign.

What is the thing that struck you the most?

What strikes me the most during each landing is their expression.

Their lost eyes stick with you.

Each of them carries with him the memory of who he lost,

of who didn't make it, of who died.

The sea is just the last stop

of a long, a very long journey, that lasts for months and months,

among many difficulties.

And often the sea is where their journey ends.

Some of them, the more fortunate ones, manage to be saved.

There were children!

Many of them, unfortunately, don't make it.

And end up at the bottom of the sea.

-Okay, this is it. -But we have other questions to ask.

Let's do it after the landing.

Come with me. We'll go to the cafe.

Please.

-Good morning to everyone! -Good morning.

-Hi. How are you? -Fine. What is it?

-Ten coffees. Will you make them? Thanks. -Shit! Ten coffees?

Do you have to stay awake for the whole month?

Come on, come on.

-I brought coffee. You want one? -Oh, thanks. Very kind of you.

-None for you? -No, thanks.

-No sugar? You want it? -Thanks.

-Hi, kids! -Hi.

Kids, wait for me here.

You can film from here. Remember to be discreet and respectful.

Don't be offensive and point the camera in these people's faces.

Always remember where they come from.

And above all, stay in this gazebo.

It is the only safe area, you must not leave. Is that clear?

Remember that!

Come on, come on.

Look at him. He fainted!

A stretcher. Right away. Rescue!

One, two, and three!

Don't get close.

Make room, please.

-Back up. -Push, push.

-Easy. -Easy! Easy! Make room!

Come on.

Come on! Make way!

-What is going on? -I don't know. He fainted, collapsed.

-He won't let go of my hand. -We'll free it now.

If he's holding your hand, it probably isn't that serious.

-We'll take care of it, thank you! -Thank you. Have a good day.

Let's check his parameters.

COAST GUARD

Good morning to everyone!

-Hi. -Hi.

What a lovely ball!

We have a player here!

What is your name? Your name?

-Cuki. -Cuki?

-I like it! -Adele?

-Chiara! -Hi.

-What is it? -We've an estimated number of 52 minors.

-All in Palermo? -Yes. The places were already assigned.

-So they will all stay with you. -Perfect! See you later.

-Adele? -Yes.

Yes.

No, wait.

Salim, will you please help me with the translation? Thanks.

He lost everything at sea.

Oh, yes! I didn't recognize her!

She is with me. I know her. I take care of her!

Adele. Excuse me. The mayor, prefect, chief of police and bishop arrived.

I must run. I have to go. Sorry. See you later. Later. Okay?

-Let me film too. -Wait.

-Shit! -You've had it all morning. Give it to me.

All right, take it.

-Good morning, good morning. -Hello.

We have to get closer or we won't be able to hear.

-You heard your mother. We must stay here! -Who is my mother? The police?

-Mr. Mayor. -Good morning, Marshal.

-Prefect. -Marshal.

Excellency.

Why isn't the boat docked?

Mayor, the general command gave us instructions for another migrant rescue.

So, to be quicker, we won't let the ship into the port,

but we'll have the castaways transported to our patrol boat.

All right. Go ahead.

Come on. We're going!

-Good morning, Mayor. -Hi, Adele!

-Good morning, Prefect. -Good morning.

We were talking with the prefect on the minister's absence.

Will you explain it?

Yes. The mayor said how important it was to sign today, but…

I understand. You want to postpone the signing?

-Is that it? -No, no.

The minister repeated that he very much cared about the ceremony.

He wants to give a sign of his presence and support for the initiative.

-It would be important for you, right? -Well, yes.

He left us the decision of postponing or not.

And I think it is best to postpone, Adele.

If we sign today, as of tomorrow, these kids will have a voluntary tutor

who will welcome them into their home, who will follow them in everything.

They will start on the path to integration!

They will no longer be number 600 on my list.

Because there are 52.

But tomorrow more are arriving and after tomorrow, even more.

We must not waste time. Time is precious!

Listen. The absence of the minister is a bad enough blow!

Besides, we announced it to the press! It will be even more noticeable!

Excuse me.

Stop, boy!

Stop! It's dangerous! Stop!

Cuki!

Stop! Stop!

Help!

Mom!

Mom, take this.

That's it. Give me your hand, your hand.

One, two…

Give me your hand.

Adele!

COAST GUARD

Adele!

-Is everything all right? -Yes.

Mayor!

-You come for a swim too? -Maybe some other time.

What do you say, Prefect? Would the minister have jumped in?

Oh, sure!

All right, if this signing has to be done, let's do it!

Let's do it. Let's do it.

So…

as you see, once again Palermo has turned on the hospitality machine.

This afternoon the protocol

that regards the itinerary of unaccompanied minors will be sealed.

I will tell you right away that the minister won't be present,

but the emergency means we're obliged to go on.

-You were brave, you know that? -You were stupid.

You can't dive into the sea to save someone

without even having a life preserver.

I know.

That's how I am. I dive into things without thinking.

-Why do you do it? -What?

Excuse me.

It's what we managed to get. I'm sorry.

-Don't apologize. It's perfect. Thanks. -You're welcome.

I think this is yours.

This is mine.

-Let's change. -Where?

Here! Where else?

Are you embarrassed? I gave you your bath up until yesterday!

Wait.

I won't look.

There were a thousand policeman on that pier. It was enough to ask one.

Yes.

Don't you see it was instinctive?

I…

When I see a child struggling…

Because every child you see becomes your child, right?

This Great Mother thing is absurd!

But you are a big boy now. Don't you see it's just a saying?

That the press made it up?

Since I am the assessor, I am the tutor for many minors.

Children who don't have anyone.

-But it is an administrative role. -What are you saying?

You dove into that disgusting port water to save a child that you don't even know.

An assessor shouldn't do that.

In fact…

I don't do it because I am the assessor.

I do it because I think it's the right thing to do.

Something everybody should do. If someone is in need, you help them.

I know it wasn't pleasant to read that article this morning.

I don't give a darn! It's Silvia who imagined who knows what.

She was crying, screaming. She was mad.

Anyway, Dad did a good job. He tried to calm her down.

At least you have the good fortune of having a special father.

As opposed to your mother.

-Anyway, I'll talk to Silvia about it. -You had better.

Marco.

I'd like you to understand

that if I do this job, and do it in this way…

it's because I want you to be proud of me.

-Hey, Marco! -Why didn't you dive in too?

How could I have filmed you? It was awesome!

-Really? -All the press are talking about you two!

Really?

I understand that this signing with the mayor today is important.

Yes, it is. Very.

Then let's go! We have to be there!

Meanwhile, you go back to school.

See you later, in the afternoon.

If we have to go to school, then we'll edit the video.

-All right. -Come on.

Here I am.

How are you? Everything okay with your son?

We are fine. How is Cuki?

He's okay, don't worry. He's with the doctors.

He's just frightened. The social assistants are with him.

-Thank heavens. -No, wait.

Salibu, bring me the ball.

Thank you.

This is his ball. Will you give it to him?

He brought it from Senegal. He says he wants to become a champ.

All right. We'll cheer for him.

Salim, excuse me.

Bonjour. Salam-aleikum.

My name is Adele.

With the people you see, we will take care of you.

Now, you must wait here.

Then we'll take you to a place where you can eat, wash, and change.

Everything that concerns you will go through me.

So you must trust me.

Welcome to our beautiful city.

You didn't tell me what your name is.

-Falah. -Falah.

-She's on the fourth floor. -Okay.

Can I get some flowers?

-Can I? -Yeah. Yes.

Hi.

Let's hope Rania likes this visit.

That girl is still a mystery to me.

She's been here four months and hasn't been able to integrate.

She even spent one day at my home with my children.

We hoped she would open up a bit, but no luck.

This is ten euros.

What have you got to tell me?

Any news on the kids at the center that are being relocated?

Fourteen girls are guests with the Ursuline nuns.

-Here in the city? -Yes.

And the boys? Can we keep them in Palermo?

I don't know. The only solution at the moment is Reggio Calabria.

Reggio Calabria?

But, Chiara, we'll send them even farther away!

I know, the boys on the team are causing a commotion.

They are refusing to do anything. To eat, to speak, to move.

Tuna and tomato?

Tomato and mozzarella?

A nice arancini with meat?

A butter arancini?

Come on, take it.

I don't understand. What is this, guys? A hunger strike?

Come on, eat! Take it!

Take this arancini!

A wall of silence.

Guys, will you understand that we are on your side?

Nobody said you won't be able to play anymore.

You'll be able to play, but on other teams!

You wait here. I'll go in first and check how she is.

Rania.

-Adele! -Hi.

You see? I promised I would come to see you.

I have a surprise for you.

Someone has come to see you from very far away.

Wait.

Come.

Rania.

What happened? Rania?

Rania.

Rania?

Rania?

You don't want to see your brother?

What happened? Did he give you bad news about your family?

She won't open it.

Go call a nurse. I don't know, someone!

What did you tell her? What did you tell her?

Here he is.

She locked herself in the bathroom. Can you help us, please?

Don't worry. I sent him away!

Rania, open!

Open! Open!

Rania, what are you doing? Are you crazy? Get down.

Hey!

Where are you going?

Stop!

Hey!

Easy.

-Well? Do we know who he was? -Look. He threw them at me.

Rania.

If you want us to help you, you have to tell us something.

You have to tell us who Falah is. Why you were afraid of him.

Why did you want to do that terrible thing earlier?

She says Falah is her husband.

Your husband?

She was married when she was twelve.

Her father sold her to Falah.

He already had two wives and treated her like a slave.

He just came to take her away, thinking everything is his.

But she is not his.

Rania, you are not his.

I promise that you won't see Falah again. We'll kick him out.

I'll come back to see you soon.

Chiara, we must tell the educators to take turns.

-They have to constantly check on her. -Yes.

She must never be left alone.

Come on, move!

Oh, God. I was dead.

Darn it!

-Hi, Adele. -Oh, hi.

Andrea came to pick up Silvia. They left ten minutes ago.

-Yes, I couldn't make it. -I will see you at Silvia's party.

Sure. I think I'll at least be able to blow out the candles with her.

Then maybe we'll talk about the fruit.

-It's very important. Vital! -You want to talk about fruit?

Why can't we choose the fruit that our kids eat at school?

-Is the cafeteria fruit organic or not? -You're right. Of course.

Excuse me a minute.

We'll talk about it later, because I'm very interested.

-Bye. -Bye! Hello?

Mrs. Adele, excuse me, but I must accompany my daughter.

-What? And the cake? -I put the cake in a special package.

You don't know how important this cake is for me today.

Ask for Gianni.

Perfect! Leave me the bill, please. Thanks a million.

Go on, push.

-Hi! -Hey!

We are really serious here!

We are preparing a disco for Silvia and her girlfriends.

Did you know your son is a DJ?

-DJ Dynamite! -Really?

Show Mom your dive. Get it. Get the video.

Ever since he's been home, he's talked of nothing else.

Of this fantastic day, of you two diving into the sea.

-Really? -I am proud of you two! Come here.

-No. They did a video? -Look, look. We're even famous!

We have loads of views and it keeps going up.

We've gone viral!

-Viral? -Look!

My gosh, look.

Are you crazy? You dived into the port like that?

Oh, love. You're an athlete?

Dad, Grandma and I blew up 20. We'll hang them up now!

Very good, love!

Sweetheart, you are so lovely!

Did you see?

Did you see what Mom brought? The cake you wanted.

Look at it!

Love?

-She is very angry. -I saw that.

Maybe you should go talk to her.

Do me a favor, Mom. Will you put it in the refrigerator?

-I think it's the right moment. -Yes, right away!

Let's have her enter the world of grownups.

Silvia?

Love?

-Are you angry with me? -Yes.

For what you read in the paper?

Why do you only tell me fairy tales? Do you think I'm little and stupid?

I am not stupid. You are wrong!

Are you kidding?

I know that!

Love.

I was stupid.

I only wanted to tell you the lovely things I imagined for you.

I don't like them anymore.

Rainbows and unicorns disgust me now.

You know what the real fairy tales are? The ones you read in that paper.

They're only words to explain what I do.

Those kids aren't my children. I just take care of them.

-Why isn't all that written in the paper? -You're right. They made a mistake.

I don't believe you.

I'm sorry, Silvia.

Listen to me carefully.

Try to imagine taking a very long trip.

All by yourself.

And when you arrive, finding yourself in a country where you don't know anyone.

You don't speak the language.

Wouldn't you like to have someone like me to welcome you?

Who takes care of you and makes you feel less sad?

If you are sick, she will call a doctor.

Or she enrolls you in school and talks to the teachers.

Wouldn't it be less frightening to be away from home?

Why should I be in a place like that by myself? You want to send me there?

No, my love. What are you saying?

You don't need to run away.

-They have to run away? -Yes.

Why do they have to run away?

They have to run away

because where they come from, people don't care for one another.

They have wars, drop bombs.

Or there is nothing to eat. Children get ill.

So they must run away to find a place…

where they can live in peace.

And it is difficult, you know.

They take a long trip.

They must cross the desert and the sea.

Why are the children alone?

Sometimes, during the trip, their mother and fathers…

don't make it.

They die?

Enough! Enough! Why are you telling me these things?

Do you want to make me cry?

-I am just trying-- -I don't want you to explain.

-And I don't want you to talk to me. -Wait. Listen to me a minute.

Silvia!

-Love-- -I don't want to see you anymore!

You are bad!

Fairy tales aren't right.

But neither is the truth!

You know what she said, Mom?

-That I am bad, that I made her cry. -You know she doesn't think that.

Look. Why don't you wear this instead of the usual pants?

It would suit a ceremony. I gave it to you.

You know what I think?

That I ruined her day.

I ruined her birthday and maybe even her life!

Don't exaggerate!

It's a bit traumatic to go from a road painted pink

to the war in Syria in one day!

There are no cures for facing what we all have to put up with!

You can teach her to live in this world.

-How do I know how it's done? -Nobody knows!

No, that isn't the cake I wanted! That isn't the right one!

Do you hear her?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SILVIA

-I don't want a cake like that! -Love.

-What happened? -Look.

-I don't believe it. A strawberry cake! -Good thing she insisted on seeing it.

But I swear I ordered a cherry one!

No, you did it on purpose. You know I can't eat strawberries!

Love, how can that be? I know perfectly well you're allergic to strawberries.

I don't believe you. I don't believe you!

-Enough! -What are you saying? You mean it?

Holy heavens.

-Are you looking at me? -What? Come on!

He looks at me instead of doing something. He just looks at me!

-I'll call the pastry shop. -Yes, call the pastry shop.

-What should I say? -Even, "What should I say?"

Look, I'll do it. It'll be quicker. Thanks!

-May I talk to the owner? -She isn't back.

Oh.

-You are Gianni, right? -Yes, exactly.

I came by an hour ago to pick up a cake.

-Yes, I remember. -We realized it is a strawberry cake,

and we ordered a cherry one.

-My daughter is allergic to strawberries. -Oh, I'm sorry.

So we must order another cake, a cherry one.

-All right, perfect. -Please.

As I said this morning, a cherry one.

-All right, okay. -Thank you.

-Thank you. -Goodbye.

Oh, God. You see? Done! We solved everything.

You said you ordered the cake yesterday.

You ordered it this morning instead. Had you forgotten?

Come on. Why does it matter?

What matters is that now you have the cake you wanted.

You are a liar.

Silvia!

She is a tough one!

Mom, that dress looks nice on you. You look like an assessor.

Did Grandma pay you to say that?

No! He's right. It looks very good on you!

You're at it too?

Silvia.

Sorry. You're right. I lied to you.

I didn't order the cake yesterday. I ordered it this morning.

I swear that I went by yesterday, but it was late and it was closed.

Go away. I don't want to listen to you anymore. Okay?

What does it matter? The cherry cake you wanted will be here soon.

Why don't we think about the party?

Don't you realize I don't want to have it anymore?

Silvia.

Silvia, stop it now!

Silvia.

Silvia, please.

I don't want to stay with you anymore. I want to live with Dad.

Oh, Massimo! Where are the workers who were supposed to put up the photos?

What happened? I thought I'd find everything installed, everything finished.

The inauguration is in two hours!

They left. Do you realize that? They all left!

Adele, did you see? I was about to call you.

Town hall hasn't paid them in a long time.

They were supposed to pay the old bills today and instead--

Darn it! Everything had to go wrong today?

-I'm sorry. -What can I say?

-I'll take them home. -No, no!

Forget it!

I care about this project. You know we can't give this exhibition up!

What'll we do? Hook them up on the walls with thumbtacks?

I don't know. But don't touch anything. We'll find a solution. Please!

Adele, excuse me, but there's a bigger problem, and very urgent.

It's about the Aurora Center boys, the ones on the soccer team.

-Well? -They ran away. They disappeared!

-What? -Yes.

Then they called us at the office to say they’d been found.

Guess where they are?

How did they get inside?

-Finally, you're here! -What happened?

If people find out about this, it's trouble for everyone.

For them, for me, for the soccer association.

Look at the field. We just planted the grass.

It shouldn't even be touched.

And these scoundrels want to invade the field and trample on it.

You must take these Balubas away from here.

Otherwise, I will get fired and they will be reported.

All right.

Well?

Will you explain what you are doing? What's gotten into you?

Is this the way to protest?

We want to be listened to. You sent everyone out.

We won't leave here unless we know that we're staying in Palermo.

You are Rory, right?

-Yes. -You're in your second year of Italian?

-Yes. -So am I.

-What is your name? -David.

Boys, I know perfectly well that it's tough for you.

It's tough to leave the city and all that you are doing here.

But reason with me for a minute.

You are getting into trouble just to kick a ball.

It's not just kicking a ball.

You are occupying the Palermo stadium. Do you realize that?

You could be reported!

Is this how you're going to stay in the city? By ending up in jail?

We want to stay in Palermo and play in the final.

At the welcome center we always kept to ourselves. Nobody knew us.

Since we started playing soccer, we made friends with other teams.

They take us to parties, in homes, and showed us the city.

It's not just kicking the ball.

At first it was a game,

but now it is our life.

I don't think we can find a place for them in Palermo.

I've been trying since this morning. I called everyone, but no luck.

Only in Reggio Calabria, and we should be thankful for that.

We must find a way to do this magic trick.

But how?

So if I get you to stay in Palermo--

Adele, you can't do it! Where will you put them?

-I don't know. We have to do it. -By tonight?

Sure, by tonight! Otherwise, where's the fun?

So, I can help you. But you have to give me a hand.

Because it's a very tough day.

Problems seem to pop up like mushrooms. Poison ones, for that matter!

What should we do?

Follow me.

We are leaving.

Quickly.

Good morning to everyone and thank you for being here!

I want to explain why today is so important.

We needed a protocol.

The creation of a platform that would unite all aspects

of the life of a foreign minor in this city.

When we leave this building, things will have changed for us and for them.

When this is signed, every citizen of Palermo can sign up to a list

and become a voluntary tutor for a minor.

These kids are not a curse, they are not a burden!

Let's have them study with us, work with us.

I think that when the time comes

there will no longer be a divide between us and them.

It will be a beautiful time!

Thank you.

-Well? -Really lovely, Adele.

An exceptional idea.

-Thank you. -Yes, it will have a huge impact.

-A truly moving exhibition. -I am so happy.

-Shall we go? -Let's go.

Finally, the signing, Mayor.

What a bore. Give me that camera!

Your mother had the crazy idea for this exhibition.

Who has crazy ideas? Crazy people!

Only she could come up with human easels.

Good evening to everyone.

Thank you for coming to this important appointment.

The signing of the protocol

for the safeguard of unaccompanied minors.

The minister was supposed to be here with us,

but a change in his schedule took him to another city.

Patience.

Let me thank all of the city's institutions

that worked together in the creation of this document.

Our town hall, the university, the civil court, the court for minors,

the central police station, the health and school institutions.

But more than anything, I want to thank Assessor Adele Cucci.

Who, with the great passion and determination that characterizes her,

did everything, truly everything, believe me, to get this far.

We are the first in Europe to think of a hospitality model for minors.

And we are honored that the government considers this protocol…

the first step towards a necessary law that can no longer be procrastinated.

Human mobility is a structural factor of our society,

and not a matter of security.

We work so migration will no longer mean suffering,

but mobility as a human right.

This is our dream.

But now let's get back to reality and sign this protocol.

Thank you, kids. Enjoy and eat.

Thank you, thank you. Thank you.

Thank you. But you have to keep your promise now.

Of course, I will. A promise is a promise. Right?

-All right. We'll see. -We'll see.

Thank you, kids. Thanks a million. Thanks.

Thank you.

Let me sit down. My feet hurt.

We've reached 30,000 views.

-Is that good? I don't understand. -More or less.

It means that today we are famous and tomorrow nobody will remember us.

Sure. He is always positive.

Wait a second. You're saying we're famous today?

Let's take advantage of it! Turn that camera on.

Come here. Hurry!

Hi. My name is Adele and this is Marco. My son.

Would you believe it if I told you the most beautiful thing in the world

is looking into a child's eyes after saving his life?

It also makes you much more popular.

I have great news for you!

As of today, I am giving you the possibility

of living this dream.

-Instead of admiring, you look at phone? -It's very simple.

You must come to town hall, to me,

to the Assessor's Office of Social Politics,

and sign up to a list of voluntary tutors.

After a brief preparation course

you can take care of one or more kids.

Because, believe me, taking care of a child…

is like saving the world.

I'll be waiting for you.

Thank you.

Well? What happened?

It seems she got up and left. Just like that.

I asked for her to be supervised, to never leave her alone. Right?

In fact, I was always with her.

I went out for just enough time to get a bottle of water.

How is it possible that a minor gets up and walks out of a hospital?

There are thousands of people here. It's not easy to watch everyone.

Oh, God.

Salim…

did you understand anything? What did Falah tell her?

The first thing he said was, "Hi, Rania. How are you?"

Then he said, "You weren't expecting to see me?"

He whispered the other thing. I couldn't understand.

He could have blackmailed her.

Maybe.

They blackmail them by taking revenge on their families.

So what do we do now?

-Surely we have to report her as missing. -Yes, but meanwhile we must look for her.

Salim, can you think of a place?

That girl could give birth any moment.

Let's go to Kalida.

-Hi, Kalida. -Hi, Salim.

-Thank you. -Bye.

-Bye! -All right, bye.

-Salut. -Oui, salut.

Laura!

Laura!

-I know you! -I know you too.

Do you remember? Adele Cucci.

Your name is…

-Coffi. -…Coffi! Coffi!

You wanted to be a carpenter!

Why are you here? Didn't you want to build boats?

-No, I want to make money, not boats. -Listen, Coffi, I need help.

I am looking for this girl. Actually, she's a child.

Her name is Rania. She's pregnant.

-No, no. -You've never seen her?

I don't know her.

-It's important. Try to remember. -I don't know her.

I don't want any problems.

Thanks.

Come on!

A nice eggplant, do you want it?

Wait. I'll take care of it.

Rania is mine.

Rania is mine, you can't take her away!

Excuse me. I didn't want to disturb you.

Let them work!

I said to leave!

-Come on. -I don't want to see you here anymore!

-Let's go. -Leave!

-Wait! -Go. I said to leave.

-Come! -I told you…

-Come on! -No! I don't want him to win!

Understand? We must go, Salim!

-We must report them. Understand? -They are dangerous people.

Calm down.

How can I calm down?

How can I? I made all this commotion!

I brought Falah to the hospital, to Rania!

The only thing that comforts me…

is that at least Rania is not in his hands.

She's alone somewhere.

Poor Rania.

-Hello? -Hello, Adele?

Adele? Sorry if I yell, but I can't hear! There is a big commotion here.

No, no. I can hear you. What is it?

If I tell you, you won't believe it. You must come to the office right away.

-Yes, but I want to go to Silvia. -What?

Caterina, I want to go to Silvia.

You can go to Silvia later. You performed a miracle. You've got to see it!

And then we have to solve the problem with the soccer team boys.

-They want to talk to you. -All right.

I'll wait for you.

-Let's go to town hall. -Okay, all right.

-Hello? -Marco, hi. It's me.

How's it going? Everything okay? Is Silvia still angry?

The girls are here, but Silvia and Dad are still talking in the bedroom.

Did you get the cake?

-Did they make the right one this time? -Not yet.

I can't join you yet.

Mom, listen. If it's so important, I'll take care of Silvia.

-Don’t worry. Come when you can. -Thanks.

Bye, my love.

Bye.

-First and last name? -Russo Antonina.

-Born in? -Palermo.

Excuse me a minute. Finally, you're here!

What happened?

Right after your appeal, people began showing up.

So I explained to them that we still have to get organized

and we'll be operative as of tomorrow. They want to leave their names anyway.

-But there is bad news. -There you go.

We couldn't find any accommodation for the soccer team boys.

-No! -I know.

A bus is coming to take them to Reggio Calabria.

-Wait. Where are they? -I had them go to the library.

I have an idea!

Hi, guys! Come on, let's go! Quickly!

Come on, come on.

Excuse me!

Excuse me! First of all, I want to thank you

for responding to my appeal.

These boys who you see are great players on a soccer team.

They are desperate because they found out they have to leave Palermo.

For them, this means

giving up the decisive final of the championship.

I am just asking if by chance, some of you,

as of this evening, can give them hospitality.

A mattress is enough, a cot, a sleeping bag. Whatever you have!

It would really be important.

We have something to offer. A home, a family.

I have a free room. My daughter left for London!

It's fine with us. If it's all right for him to sleep on the sofa.

-Yes, hello, Adele? -Judge, I am at town hall.

-I want to show you something. -Yes, what?

Here. You see them?

All these people are willing

to take home a boy from the Aurora Center.

I just need your authorization.

You see? We didn't even need stalls on the street.

So I see, Adele. My compliments!

Adele, I just left the office because I have an appointment.

But don't worry. It's nothing important.

They can wait for me. I'll go back up and get you the necessary documents.

Thank you, Judge!

Boys, we have a home for all of you.

-Bravo! Cheers for Adele! -Thanks.

If we win the tournament, we'll dedicate it to you!

-Madam, excuse us again for the mistake. -Forget it. It happens.

-Here. The cherry cake. -Cherries, right?

-Cherries, cherries. -What is it?

I don't believe it.

That is my car!

Please, madam! Can you call the police?

Oh!

What are you doing?

Go!

-Here she is! -Here she is, finally!

Good evening to everyone.

-Adele, finally. -Here I am.

Sorry I'm late.

We've decided what to do about the fruit. We must talk about it.

Yes. But first let's worry about the cake, and then the fruit. Okay?

-Where is Silvia? -She ran into her room.

She left as soon as she heard you were coming!

Excuse me. Excuse me.

Let's arrange the candles. Come on, everyone help me.

Silvia, my love--

Is she sleeping?

I'd like to have a nice sleep too.

I am so tired.

I wanted this day to be beautiful for you. But everything went wrong.

Darn!

Little one, where are you going?

You really have a stupid mother.

I thought that not telling you about the bad things in the world…

would help you be happier.

Something special happened today.

The world came to you.

It knocked on your door.

You know what it did? Like this. Look.

Knock knock!

Here it is.

A surprise.

It happens like that, and you don't know if it's good or bad.

But if you leave it outside, how will you ever know?

So you have two possibilities.

Close the door and keep on dreaming about your rainbows,

or…

Or?

Or…

you can let the surprise in.

But you must know that from that moment on, your life won't be the same.

And nobody can decide for you. Nobody can make you.

You must decide.

I can only tell you what happened to me.

Many, many children knocked on my door.

And I opened it, every time.

And if I went back, I'd do it again.

Because you and I are fortunate.

You and I don't have to part.

You and I are here together forever.

And that's the most beautiful thing in the world.

Come on, Silvia.

Don't ruin your birthday.

The cherry cake is out there. The one you wanted!

And all your girlfriends are saying,

"When is Silvia coming? She has to blow out the candles."

And you have to make an absolutely fantastic wish!

When I grow up I want to do your work.

But I think I have to change my wish now.

Happy birthday to you!

Happy birthday to Silvia!

Happy birthday to you!

No, love. It must be a mistake. Don't worry.

-I want to see who it is! -Yes, but…

Silvia, what are you doing?

Wait a minute!

Rania? Rania!

Little one, where have you been? I looked everywhere for you!

-Dad, there's a girl who is sick! -What is going on?

-Hurry! -Don't get scared.

Oh, God. I think it's contractions. She's due in a few days.

Not days, minutes. Open, come on.

All right, easy, easy. Come here.

-Let's pull her up a bit. -Rania.

-Rania, we are here now! -You must lie down.

Call an ambulance. Okay? Prepare clean sheets and towels.

-And boil some water! -Yes.

Hello. Thank heavens you arrived.

This way, please.

-The woman giving birth? -At the end, on the right, thanks.

Silvia!

-Silvia! -Thank heavens it went well.

-How lovely. -Beautiful!

It's a girl!

Silvia.

Happy birthday to you!

Happy birthday to Silvia!

Happy birthday to you!

Did you think of another wish?

-It's-- -No, you can't say it!

It's the same one as before.

Cheers to Silvia!

-Happy birthday! -Cheers to Silvia!

Oh, Mom! We have to ask you one last question.

Hit me.

What's it feel like to be the Great Mother?

You know something?

I am not the Great Mother.

Palermo is the Great Mother.

And all the people who know that cultural differences are not a danger,

but a resource.

All those who know that nobody decides where to be born.

All those who welcome migrants as children.

And, of course, as children who need us.

And we are here.

We want to be here.

AFTER SIGNING THE PROTOCOL FOR THE GUILD OF VOLUNTARY TUTORS

IN APRIL OF 2017, LAW 47 WAS APPROVED

IT SANCTIONED RESPECT FOR THE RIGHTS OF UNACCOMPANIED FOREIGN MINORS,

WITH EQUAL RIGHTS AS THE MINORS OF ITALIAN CITIZENS

OR THOSE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION.