Italian forensic anthropologist Dr. Cristina Cattaneo has made it her mission to identify the bodies of unknown individuals, often referred to as the “Pure Unknown”. These nameless individuals are often marginalized members of society, such as homeless people, sex workers, or migrants who have drowned in the Mediterranean Sea. Despite the growing numbers of unidentified bodies, their right to dignity and identification is often overlooked.
Every night, Dr. Cattaneo examines these bodies in her autopsy room, determined to give them the closure and respect they deserve. In recent years, she has seen an increase in the number of migrants who have tragically lost their lives at sea and washed up on Italian shores. Recognizing the importance of identifying these individuals, she has taken her campaign to the European Parliament to advocate for new laws that would ensure their right to be identified and remembered.
A documentary film titled “Pure Unknown” by Valentina Cicogna and Mattia Colombo captures Dr. Cattaneo’s tireless efforts to bring attention to this important issue. Through her work, she hopes to bring about change in the way society views and treats unidentified individuals, ensuring that they are not forgotten and are given the dignity they deserve.
Dr. Cristina Cattaneo’s dedication to identifying the Pure Unknown serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and respecting every individual, regardless of their circumstances. Her tireless advocacy for their right to be identified is a powerful testament to the value of every human life.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
