In the last thirty years, Italian cities have become more diverse, thanks to a significant influx of immigrants from all over the world. Rome is no exception, and many of its residents were born abroad. This ethnic and cultural diversity has become as integral to the city as its monuments and history.<\/p>\n
To explore Rome\u2019s cultural and religious diversity was one of the goals of the course \u201cReligious and Social Diversity in Rome Today.\u201d The course is part of the University of California Education Abroad Program\u2019s Art, Food, and Society spring semester in Rome. Taught by local faculty Dr. Farian Sabahi, the course challenges students to look beyond Rome\u2019s traditional image and explore its multifaceted society.<\/p>\n
One of the topics discussed in class were the history of Chinese immigration in Italy and the Chinese-Italian community in Rome. To explore this topic, students met with Liliana\u00a0Liao, cultural coordinator for Associna Lazio. This local association represents both Chinese-born Italians and first-generation individuals in the territory around Rome.<\/p>\n
Liao first introduced the history of Chinese immigration in Italy and the formation of the Chinese community in Rome, one of the largest in the country, together with those of Milan and Prato. She also discussed the economic role of its members, who have an important presence in food services, retail, and manufacturing. Romans of Chinese origin are also active in facilitating exchanges between Italy and China, through both cultural events and international trade.<\/p>\n
Liao then discussed her own experience as a Chinese-born Italian, growing up navigating two different cultures. In a lively Q&A session, students learned about Chinese and Italian traditions, family dynamics, and much more.<\/p>\n
Thanks to this meeting, students learned about one of the largest immigrant communities in Italy and the ongoing social transformations in Rome, gaining a more nuanced perspective of the city and exploring its diversity.<\/p>\n