Sette Giugno Day – 7 June 1919 

At the start of the 20th century, Malta faced numerous political and social challenges. The outbreak of World War One brought a surge in activity and work opportunities, but the island was spared direct attacks. However, the population endured severe shortages of essential food commodities. Following the war, widespread redundancies exacerbated the situation, with food remaining scarce and costly. In response, local political leaders convened to demand a more favourable constitution.

This movement, later known as the National Assembly, was led by Dr Filippo Sceberras. There was broad agreement on the need to petition Britain for a Constitution. The Assembly's first meeting took place in February 1919, followed by several others in Valletta. University students actively supported the initiative, particularly after learning about significant changes to the length of their courses. Their discontent escalated into protests in the streets of Valletta.

Meanwhile, unrest was growing among the working class. Followers of the socialist thinker Manwel Dimech played a key role in stirring discontent. The formation of the first unions had already highlighted the demand for improved working conditions and wages. The end of the war further empowered these unions, as widespread redundancies intensified the call for change.

Protests intensified over the soaring cost of food, particularly bread, a staple of the Maltese diet.  

These mounting tensions culminated in the tragic events of June 7, 1919.

On that day, 7 June 1919, the National Assembly convened in Valletta to continue deliberations on how to formally request a more liberal constitution from the British Government. The meeting drew a large attendance. Outside, University students and a sizable group of Dockyard workers gathered in support. Meanwhile, more people flocked to Valletta, roaming the streets and calling for shops to close in solidarity with the Maltese representatives. Tensions escalated when some businesses remained open, which the crowd perceived as a disregard for the political cause. This led to a series of attacks on those establishments.

The attacks on private property prompted the deployment of soldiers to control the crowd. However, without provocation, the soldiers opened fire on the unarmed protesters. Over two days of rioting, four unarmed Maltese individuals lost their lives: Manwel Attard, Gużeppi Bajada, Lorenzo Dyer, and Carmelo Abela.

Eventually, the unrest subsided, and meaningful discussions began, ultimately leading to the introduction of a more liberal constitution. This milestone paved the way for Malta's first Self-Government constitution in 1921, marking the beginning of the journey toward full independence.

Commemorating Sette Giugno

​On the eve of June 7, wreaths are laid at the victims’ monument in Addolorata Cemetery by the National Festivities Committee as a gesture of remembrance and respect. The monument, designed by Boris Edwards, was erected shortly after the tragic events.

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On the day of the commemoration, a band march takes place at St. George’s Square in front of the Sette Giugno monument, a creation by Anton Agius. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and all Members of Parliament attend the ceremony. This includes a speech on democracy delivered by the Speaker, the sounding of the Last Post, a minute of silence, and the sounding of the Reveille. It concludes with wreath-laying by the officials present and the playing of the National Anthem. A similar remembrance ceremony is held in Xagħra, Gozo, honouring one of the victims who was from this town.