Paper short abstract:

Based on data coming from two separated ethnographical researches, this paper analyzes educational choices undertaken by Rumanian Roma parents, living in Italian illegal camp. We will illustrate meanings and purposes, as well as hopes and ambitions linked to children’s schooling.

Paper long abstract:

Since the 1990s, major political and economical transformations are modifying the distribution of Roma population within Europe. In particular, many Romanian Roma chose to migrate to Western European countries, or to adopt transnational trajectories, hoping to improve their living conditions. However, several families who moved to Italy are living in illegal camps, constantly evicted and in very bad conditions. In this context, they may take different strategies into account, such as moving with their children or not. Moreover, another option is to enroll their children in the Italian educational system or not.

Having children enrolled into Italian schools results into a strong impact on their families' everyday life. In fact, such families are far better included and tolerated by resident population and have bigger chances to receive support from institutions, associations or NGOs.

This paper analyzes educational choices undertaken by parents, as well as their expectations from the Italian education system. As a matter of fact, the choice of enrolling their children into school might have several meanings and purposes, such as finding a way to leave the Roma camp and seek a better accommodation. We will then analyze different educational strategies and the social mobility that may result from such strategies. To do so, we will illustrate hopes and ambitions linked to children's schooling. Our argument is based on data collected by two separate ethnographic studies both conducted in Northern Italy as part of our PhD program, one in the field of social anthropology and the other in sociology.