Locatelli in Tokyo: ‘Disability: Inclusion Is a Reality; Invest in Talent’

Locatelli in Tokyo: ‘Disability: Inclusion Is a Reality; Invest in Talent’

Not a conference, not a declaration of principle. A gala dinner served, cooked, and hosted by people with disabilities who had traveled from Italy. This is the message that Alessandra Locatelli, Minister for People with Disabilities, wanted to send from Tokyo, where, together with Ambassador Mario Vattani, she hosted an event at the Diplomatic Residence that combined celebration with a concrete demonstration. The occasion marks the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Japan. “We wanted to organize this evening because it sends a strong signal of our commitment to concrete action when we talk about workplace inclusion and dignity in the lives of people with disabilities,” the minister explained to ANSA. “Very often, we focus only on limitations; we want to demonstrate that there are talents and skills in which we can and must invest.” Twelve organizations were involved, with ten working in the kitchen and serving tables—supported by chefs Alessandro Circiello and Fabrizio Facchini—and two bands providing entertainment. This is not a mere showcase, but proof that “people with disabilities are not simply beneficiaries of inclusion policies, but active participants in professional, social, and cultural life.” On the international front, Locatelli strengthened an ongoing dialogue with the signing in Tokyo of the Solfagnano Charter, the final document of the first G7 summit dedicated to Inclusion and Disability, initiated by Italy in 2024. “Many countries were delighted to host the exhibition” that illustrates the Charter’s eight priorities, she said, “but challenges remain in placing the issue on the international agenda.” The exhibition tour concludes in Tokyo and will be on display at the Italian Cultural Institute from October 28 to November 4. As for the Italian reform, the minister does not shy away from acknowledging the challenges. “There is still so much to be done. The reform must be implemented: two years of pilot testing are not enough.” The issue is cultural rather than regulatory: “We are changing an approach to care that has been in place for fifty years. Even for those working in the services sector, it’s extremely difficult to change their perspective.” Alongside the “Life Project,” Locatelli cites service innovation, the caregiver law approved by the Chamber of Deputies and now before the Senate, and workplace inclusion, “which is also fundamental from an economic standpoint for the country.” Education is another source of Italian pride: “We’ve had an inclusion law since the 1970s, and many countries—from England to Germany—ask me how we do it.” The answer, he concluded, is an insight: bringing children together not only for their educational journey, “but for a shared journey of growth, respect, dignity, and relationships.” Read article...