The Italian city of Reggio Emilia hosted an important study visit from September 23rd to 25th focused on its local policies to fight discrimination. A Catalan delegation formed by six members participated in it, within the framework of the CtR (Commit to Rights) European project.
The first day started at the CityHall, where a detailed presentation was given on the socio-political context and anti-discrimination policies of the city and Emilia Romagna region. Attendees were able to learn first-hand about the participatory approach that characterizes the development of public policies in Reggio Emilia. Data such as the population of 171,342 inhabitants or that 16% are regularized immigrants was also highlighted.
Later, an internal coordination meeting of the CtR project was held and an institutional visit was made to the Tricolore Hall, home of the communal council and an emblematic place for the integration of new citizens.
In the afternoon, sessions moved to the Mondinsieme Cultural Centre, where the Local Plan Against Racism and the DI TUTTI initiative were presented as examples of actions to fight discrimination through participatory approaches and collaboration between institutions and entities.
The second day began with aplenary meeting to coordinate the CtR project and define work agreements. Then a visit was made to the Tricolore Hall, a symbolic place that promotes inclusion through naturalization ceremonies. In the afternoon, the Local Plan Against Racism was detailed, establishing anti-discrimination mechanisms in collaboration with associations.
The third day started with visits to projects such as the CAS reception centre, the Binario 49 urban regeneration initiative and the job inclusion cooperative L'Ovile. The afternoon was dedicated to evaluating the visit, highlighting the most relevant learnings to apply to the CtR project.
In short, the experiences in Reggio Emilia will offer valuable ideas to implement multisectoral strategies to fight discrimination through inclusive and participatory public policies.