(22 July 2016) Conferences, debates, an exhibition and a video-reportage: an evening dedicated to Italian migration to Australia organized on July 28 by the Italian Institute of Culture in Sydney. It starts at 18 when Michele Grigoletti and Silvia Pianelli will present a report on their book entitled “Young Italians in Australia. A «journey» from temporary to permanent”. The book is the fruit of a two-year study and analysis that takes into account statistical data of the last decade, illustrating the recent migration fluxes from Italy to Australia, Grigoletti and Pianelli explore the breadth and complexity of the current phenomenon. Through the personal stories of the lead characters, they have brought to light the motives, the thoughts, the dreams and the fears that characterize the journeys from the other side of the world, when often the airfare ticket is a one-way affair. The report is followed by the screening of the video 88 days in Australian farms that narrates the journey of young Italians in Australia, amidst dreams, hopes and thoughts.
The reportage which was financed, published and promoted by the Foundation Migrantes, the pastoral arm of the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI), looks at the experience of the life and work of young Italians between the age of 18 and 30, capturing the key notions and keywords narrated personally by 20 participants.
It continues with the presentation of the video “Dear Italy”, By Francesca Rizzoli, author and journalist of the Italian program on SBS Radio.
Through a series of interviews, videos and messages, Rizzoli takes on a touching journey, and at the same time on a deep revelation, to understand the motives why so many young Italians have decided to leave their country to start a new life in Australia. Also scheduled a panel led by moderator Sonia Schlueter, Italian Producer at SBS Australia, with the participation of the Italian Consul General Arturo Arcano. The debate will focus on the present Italian emigration, but will also look at that of the past to understand its sentiments, differences and similarities and to create dialogue between the “old” and the “new” migrants.
