From Certifications to 2024 Projects: Concrete Actions for DE&I at Sant’Agata Bolognese
Sant’Agata Bolognese, a small town in Italy known for its beautiful landscapes and traditional cuisine, has recently made headlines for its efforts towards diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). With a population of just over 7,000, the town may seem an unlikely place for such initiatives, but the local government and community have come together to create a powerful movement that is making a significant impact.
It all began in 2018 when the Municipality of Sant’Agata Bolognese became one of the first in Italy to obtain the “Diversity Charter” certification from the European Commission. This certification recognizes the town’s commitment to promoting diversity and creating an inclusive environment for all its residents. But this was just the beginning. The town has since taken concrete actions to support and raise awareness for DE&I, making it a role model for other communities around the world.
One of the most significant steps taken by Sant’Agata Bolognese was the creation of the “Sant’Agata Bolognese for Diversity” project. Launched in 2019, this project aims to promote diversity and inclusion in all areas of the town’s social and economic life. It includes various initiatives such as workshops, seminars, and cultural events to educate and involve the community in the DE&I movement.
This project has also led to the implementation of several specific actions, including the “Diversity Week” and the “Inclusive Tourism Project.” The Diversity Week, which takes place every year in September, is a week-long series of events and activities that celebrate diversity and promote dialogue and understanding among different cultures. The Inclusive Tourism Project, on the other hand, focuses on making the town’s tourism industry more inclusive by providing training and support to local businesses to cater to diverse groups of visitors.
In addition to these projects, Sant’Agata Bolognese has also taken steps to improve the inclusivity of its public spaces. The town has made its buildings and public services more accessible to people with disabilities, and it has also created a “Diversity Corner” in the central square, where people can exchange ideas and promote diversity. These visible and tangible changes have made a significant impact on the town’s residents, making them feel more included and valued.
But the efforts of Sant’Agata Bolognese do not stop there. The town has also taken a proactive approach to support DE&I in the workplace. It has implemented initiatives such as diversity training for employees and recruitment processes that promote diversity. These efforts have not only created a more diverse and inclusive workforce but have also had a positive impact on the town’s economy.
The town’s commitment to DE&I has also extended to the education sector. Sant’Agata Bolognese’s schools have implemented programs and activities to promote diversity and equality among students. These initiatives include workshops on cultural awareness and acceptance, as well as projects that encourage students to embrace their differences and celebrate diversity.
The results of these actions have been remarkable. The town’s residents have shown a strong sense of unity and acceptance towards people from different backgrounds. There has been a significant decrease in discrimination and hate crimes, and the town has become a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
The success of Sant’Agata Bolognese’s DE&I initiatives has not gone unnoticed. The town has received numerous awards and recognitions for its efforts, including the prestigious “Diversity in Action Award” from the European Commission. This recognition has further motivated the town to continue its work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse community.
Looking towards the future, Sant’Agata Bolognese has set ambitious goals for itself. In 2024, the town aims to become a benchmark for DE&I at a national and international level. It plans to achieve this through the implementation of new projects, partnerships with other communities, and participation in events and conferences focused on diversity and inclusion.
Sant’Agata Bolognese’s journey towards diversity, equity, and inclusion has been an inspiring one. It shows that even small towns can make a big impact when the community comes together to support a cause. With its commitment and concrete actions, Sant’Agata Bolognese has set an example for other communities to follow. As we move towards a more inclusive