On the morning of 11 March 2025, from 10.00 a.m., at the Milan Garden of the Righteous (Via Cimabue, MM1 QT8 - Monte Stella) we paid tribute to six exemplary figures from the world of sport, who through their courage saved lives, defended democracy and promoted human dignity.
This year a plaque was dedicated to:
Bronislaw Czech, Polish skier who opposed Nazism.
Harry Seidel, German cyclist who helped more than 100 people escape from East Germany.
Emil and Dana Zatopek, athletics champions and supporters of the Prague Spring.
Antonio Maglio, Italian doctor and father of the Paralympics.
Khalida Popal, Afghan footballer and activist, who saved hundreds of people after the return of the Taliban.
The ceremony was attended by institutional representatives, exceptional witnesses and a Righteous One herself:
Elena Buscemi, President of the Milan City Council.
Gabriele Nissim, President of the Gariwo Foundation.
Giorgio Mortara, UCEI representative.
Khalida Popal, football player and activist, Righteous in the Garden of Milan.
Jozef Wancer, Polish economist, representing Bronislaw Czech.
Marco Marchei, former marathon runner, representing Emil Zatopek and Dana Zatopkova.
Maria Stella Calà Maglio, wife of Antonio Maglio.
The event was moderated by Martina Landi, Director General of the Gariwo Foundation.
The celebrations were organised by the Association for the Milan Garden of the Righteous, of which the Gariwo Foundation, the Municipality of Milan and the UCEI are members.