Open fields: preventing and combating racism and xenophobia against immigrant workers in agricultural departments of Southern Italy

ended

The initiative aims to contrast anti-immigrants hatred and others forms of racist discrimination in the agricultural sector in Southern Italy where the great opportunity of immigrate presence is often mixed with mistrust and prejudices. We will insist on a right information, positive coexistence, prevention and empowerment of possible victims a) promotion of knowledge and dialogue between the communities involved in the agricultural sector (Italians and Immigrants) based on a study on the level of protection of the rights of foreign workers in rural areas; b) awareness campaign with the involvement of 45 local and national media for about 40,000 people; c) interventions in 18 schools and creation of tools for raising the awareness of the Youth; d) training to students, lawyer and media operators to build their capacity on immigration issue; e) training and dissemination of information on legal, economic and citizenship rights to reduce social, health, legal and economic vulnerability of immigrants increasing their awareness on their rights. The implementation of the activities will facilitate the creation of a more conducive environment where both Italians and foreign workers will be more aware, informed and interested in the overall improvement of the sector and of the territory The widespread support to immigrants will allow the acquisition of knowledge and awareness necessary for the exercise of their rights. The widespread narrative of the current hatred will be opposed by the training investment on media operators and students and by the dissemination to an audience of 40,000 people. The phenomena of exploitation and social exclusion which have aggravated social conflicts in rural departments over the years provoking manifestations of racism, will be contrast by involving over 200 local actors (local authorities, unions, producers, universities) to facilitate the creation of a positive environment and a protective network for both Italian and foreign workers