Conference Program

In contemporary Italian schools, an increasing number of children and adolescents identify as gender variant or non-binary, often pursuing—sometimes with family support—paths of gender exploration or affirmation. This action-research project develops and field-tests an innovative, vertically integrated methodological framework for inclusive gender and sexuality education across all school levels (primary to upper secondary), aiming to foster serene, informed, and authentically inclusive learning environments that center diverse embodiments, relations, and intimate citizenships.

Aligned with the panel's emphasis on gender and sexuality education as democratic practice (Plummer, 2001; UNESCO, 2018), the project repositions bodies, relations, and care as core to democratic coexistence, epistemic justice, and resistance to polarized anti-gender discourses. Rather than imposing normative knowledge, it cultivates student agency, mutual respect, and negotiation of plural identities.

The core intervention, “...La Principessa racconta...” (inspired by Drag Queen Story Hour but uniquely Italianized), merges fabula-based storytelling with STEAM laboratories. Facilitated by an educator embodying a “Princess” (a powerful archetype of femininity re-appropriated for empathy and inclusion), sessions use illustrated “forbidden books” (e.g., Piccolo Uovo) for narrative exploration, followed by hands-on STEAM activities (wearable technology, soft circuits, scribbling machines, podcasting, stop-motion video, electronic music). These clusters collect participatory qualitative data on students’ lived experiences, needs, and gender imaginaries, particularly from LGBT+ and gender variant/non-binary youth.

The methodology includes direct/indirect observation, reflective logs, online diaries shared via social media, and family questionnaires (Google Forms/QR codes). Pilots began in 2019 (e.g., I.C. Asola, European “We are the Makers”), continued post-COVID in associations and libraries (e.g., Biblioteche di Roma – Vaccheria Nardi), and featured at events like “Educare le Differenze” (Bari, 2023). Challenges include institutional resistance, parental concerns amplified by conservative campaigns (e.g., Pro Vita e Famiglia), and funding/logistical barriers, addressed through no-fee models and community partnerships.

Outcomes will yield evidence-based guidelines for curriculum integration, teacher training on gender-inclusive facilitation, and resources supporting intimate citizenship—enabling full school and social participation irrespective of gender identity. By amplifying gender variant/non-binary voices, the project counters epistemic injustices, promotes relational ethics of care and diversity, and renews pedagogy as a site of democratic transformation. Expected impacts include enhanced belonging, reduced stigma, and practical tools for enacting Comprehensive Sexuality Education as a democratic commitment.