Matera’s New “Suspended Passport” Program Bringing Culture to All

Matera, the southern-Italian city that proudly bears the title the ‘European Capital of Culture,’ is campaigning for a new program that will bring the city’s plethora of cultural events (such as lectures, museums, etc.) to a much greater audience. The “Suspended Passport” program is a crowdfunding initiative that will allow individuals to purchase a passport—which provides entry into cultural events—and leave it for someone who is in need. The idea comes from a program started in Naples called “Pending Coffee,” which allows people to buy a cup of coffee in advance for someone in need.

The “Suspended Passport” webpage: https://www.innamoratidellacultura.it/projects/regala-un-passaporto-sospeso-per-matera-2019/

From now until the end of July, the campaign is asking for donations to help get the program up and running, in which the campaign needs at least 10,000 euros to become funded. Currently the program is 1% funded, according to the “Suspended Passport” website. Donations are accepted here: https://www.innamoratidellacultura.it/projects/regala-un-passaporto-sospeso-per-matera-2019/

– Shauni Bernier