"From Caring Places to Caring Societies”, Conference at the Istituto degli Innocenti

From Caring Places to Caring Societies is an international initiative promoted by the Istituto degli Innocenti to celebrate the 150^th anniversary of the closing of the Grated Window, which can be considered the “wheel” of the Innocenti, i.e., the physical place under the splendid Brunelleschi loggia that opens towards the city, where, from its origins until 30 June 1875, the children who could not be taken care of by their parents were handed over to the Institute. This date marks, symbolically and tangibly, the passage to more dignified and modern forms of “fostering” children within the community.

Scheduled for 30 June and 1 July, the event includes two days of reflection and discussion on the evolution and current value of caring, a commitment that characterises the Institute’s past and present, with the participation of institutional representatives, national and international experts, professionals, and adolescents.

The conference will initiate an organic and participatory reflection on the cultural and social changes that have marked the transition from "caring places" to "caring societies", thus strengthening the long journey of community commitment and assumption of responsibility towards all its members, including the youngest ones. And not only from a perspective of protection and reparation, but, increasingly, with changing awareness in terms of social, prevention and promotional attitudes to ensure suitable conditions of inclusion, well-being or welfare and equal opportunities for all children.

At the same time, the event will be an opportunity to start reflecting on the future and the challenges that await societies in the broad and increasingly complex task of supporting the welfare of new generations in a universal perspective. This reflection will be enriched by comparing Italian and foreign experiences and by listening to the voices of adolescents.

On 30 June, there will be three panels, each consisting of two sessions. The first panel will explore the historical evolution of “caring places”, including international case studies, and emphasise the importance of documenting and preserving both individual and collective memory. The second panel will address current local reception and care scenarios that challenge governance, navigating between difficulties and innovation. It will also focus on family involvement and participation. Finally, the third panel will explore transnational and intercultural perspectives. A dedicated space for reflection and participation will be provided for young people.

On 1 July there will be a plenary session during which the panels will report on their work, the voices of the representatives of the Provincial Council of Students and the National Care Leavers Experimentation Youth Conference will be heard, and speeches by experts and representatives of institutions will be delivered.

Click on this link to register for the event: https://questionari4.istitutodegliinnocenti.it/index.php/977473?lang=it

For further information: ufficio.comunicazione@istitutodeglinnocenti.it