A recent collaboration between the Ford Foundation and the non-profit organisation Rio Terà dei Pensieri has provided significant support to incarcerated people in Venice, Italy. The initiative, supported by a $100,000 commitment from the Ford Foundation, aims to create employment opportunities for inmates in two prisons: Casa Circondariale Santa Maria Maggiore and Casa di Reclusione Femminile della Giudecca.
The funding comes at an opportune time, coinciding with the launch of the 2024 Venice Biennale, where themes of social justice and inclusivity are at the forefront. As part of this partnership, Rio Terà dei Pensieri intends to expand its existing programmes, which focus on enriching the prison experience through artistic and literary activities, while providing meaningful work opportunities. Going forward, the initiative aims to further amplify the voices of marginalised groups and shed light on issues within the Italian carceral justice system. Through sustained efforts and collaborations such as these, Rio Terà dei Pensieri aims to make a tangible impact on the lives of incarcerated individuals, fostering a sense of purpose and empowerment within prison walls.
Photography by CARLOS AVENDANO, AGATA GRAVANTE, and DAMIAN TURNER
