Recognition, Interculturalism(s) and Schooling in Italy: a critique from an equity perspective

This chapter is a case study and proposes a brief investigation of Italian interculturalism(s) as documented by scholarship, relevant policy documents and teaching textbooks, and presents some key practical issues relating to the integration of students of immigrant origin. The authors’ analysis of different versions of Italian interculturalism(s) confirms the prominence of culture as its main pillar, while the issue of equity and equality is clearly neglected. The argument here is that a balanced conception of interculturalism, which recognises the ‘second pillar’ of equity, may prove to be a clearer message for teachers and practitioners. An equity-focused interculturalism will also fully acknowledge the right to education in all its practical forms.