Models of In/Exclusion

This week we discussed the concepts of integration and multiculturalism and also had our field trip to Volterra and Bolgheri!

Volterra:

Volterra is a medieval city in tuscany and known for Etruscan origins. At the museum we visited here, we learned about the Etruscans an saw the various statues depicting the families, communities, friends or various events in the city. Many of the statues had religious aspects as well and the tour guide pointed out one with angels on it which stuck out to me. This showed the continuous importance of religion at the time.

Bolgheri:

In Bolgheri we learned about the stages of production of wine. I never knew how much really went into producing one bottle of wine so it was cool to see the stages from picking the grape to bottling the wine. Bolgheri is a great region for wine production due to its location and the winds that come from the sea. This particular winery stores there grapes in concrete containers which the tour guide described allows the wine to withhold its own aromas without adding or taking away from their natural state. Certain wines are kept in these, while others are kept in barrels in a dark cold room underground. She emphasized that it is important not to shock the wine, since this will disrupt the natural progression and maturation of the grapes and the wine.

Integration and Multiculturalism:

Integration and multiculturalism are both important concepts when discussing migrants coming to a new place. Integration takes an approach of learning and assimilating into a new culture, while multiculturalism is many independent cultures coexisting. Cities are often more open to the concepts of integration and equality since people in cities are usually more open to migrants and have a better understanding of how integration can lead to a better society. We also discussed the Riace model, which is an approach meant to place refugees in cities that have a population decline. This would benefit both sides of the issue, integrating refugees into society and helping grow the city. The mayor that enforced this model was arrested with accusations of aiding illegal migration.