Bigotry mars return of Italian hostage who converted to Islam

ROME — A right-wing lawmaker in Italy was reprimanded Wednesday after he called a young Italian woman who converted to Islam while being held hostage in Somalia a “neo-terrorist.”

Silvia Romano stepped off an Italian government jet Sunday wearing the green hijab typical of Somali Muslim women. She reportedly told prosecutors in Rome she converted freely during her 18-month hostage ordeal.

What should have been a joyful time for Romano has been marred by displays of bigotry and intolerance.

Alessandro Pagano, a lawmaker from the antimigrant League Party, drew a reprimand from colleagues after he mentioned Romano while complaining about the government’s refusal to reopen churches during the virus lockdown.