The petition was started by journalist Daniele Passanante on campaigning website Change.org and has so far been signed by people across Italy and abroad.
Addressed to Senate President Piero Grasso, the petition says: “I call for the resignation of Senator Roberto Calderoli, the vice president of the Senate, following his racist statement.
“The racist stance expressed by Roberto Calderoli about Minister Cecile Kyenge is incompatible with the office of the vice president of the Italian Senate.”
Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kyenge worked as a doctor in Italy before turning to politics. She was appointed minister for integration in April and has seen been the victim of numerous racist attacks.
Calderoli, a member of the anti-immigrant Northern League party, has so far withstood calls for his resignation over the remarks made at a political rally on Sunday.
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