Hi everyone! I'm so excited to be starting my Leadership in Action project! A little overview of me and my research: My name is Evangeline, I'm a junior at Barnard College, and my Laidlaw research has focused on interrogating anti-immigrant political rhetoric in Italy over the last few decades. I've been living in Rome since January for a study abroad program, and I decided to stay in this beautiful city for my LiA! 

During my study abroad semester, I've been taking a class on immigration policy in Italy and doing a research internship with a political science think tank in Rome, both of which have given me the opportunity to learn more about Minori Stranieri Non Accompagnati (unaccompanied foreign minors), the Italian term for children from non-European countries who migrate to Italy and end up all on their own. These children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and other dangers, and the Italian government has instituted programs specifically designed to protect them.

For my LiA, I'll be working with a Centro di Prima Accoglienza (center for initial welcome), an institution designed to provide temporary care to unaccompanied foreign minors just after they are found by Italian authorities. The children assigned to this center spend approximately 30-45 days there before being assigned to a foster home for long-term care. At the center, they are provided with a safe home, meals, healthcare, and education. One of the biggest priorities is helping them learn to speak Italian. 

During my four weeks on the ground, I'll be helping out at the center. I've visited a few times and gotten to know the care providers working at the center and the kids currently living there. I've had great discussions with the center staff about what daily life at the center is like, what the kids need, and how I can help. I anticipate practicing speaking Italian with the kids, playing games with the younger children, helping prepare meals, and helping the kids with their schoolwork.