"In 1938, around 45 men (mostly from Catania) arrived on this Mediterranean island as part of Mussolini's morally bankrupt campaign against homosexuality. Marked by pink triangular badges, they probably wore them with more style than any Boy Scout ever could."
"The island of San Domino in Puglia became one of the biggest middle fingers to Italy's leader during Mussolini's reign. It was already inhabited when the gays arrived. They just made it infinitely more fabulous."
"While those were real things that occurred on the island of San Domino, the label led to the mass murder of millions, caused hundreds of thousands of people to flee Europe, and in the case of these queer men, brought shame and disgrace."
In the 1930s, Mussolini's Italy persecuted homosexuals, branding them as 'degenerates' and sending many to the island of San Domino. Despite the oppressive regime, the island became a unique space for self-expression and community among the interned men. They were marked with pink triangular badges, symbolizing their status. While San Domino offered moments of freedom and celebration, the broader context of persecution and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals during this time was severe, leading to widespread suffering and loss across Europe.
Read at Queerty
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