The Italy Center staff is currently working on developing a new social justice tour that will run for the first time in Fall 2013: Cyprus and Turkey. Here is the mission that we have written to drive the development of the new tour:

The mission of the Italy Center in Turkey & Cyprus program is to introduce students to the main inter-ethnic, religious and political dynamics of the region. During the Cyprus visit students will explore conflict from the Green Line, which divides the island and is maintained by UN Peacekeepers. The tour to South Eastern Turkey will expose students to human rights and cultural projects in a region of Turkey that has been historically influenced by Iraq and Syria.
The theme of this Social Justice Tour is Peace Education, which includes discussions on conflict resolution, the role of NGO’s in peace-keeping efforts, reconciliation, and long term solutions in a region that is currently facing an influx of refugees fleeing the war in Syria.  Cyprus and Southern Turkey (which borders Syria) represent two perfect locations for a Social Justice Study Tour on Peace Education. In addition to hearing lectures on peace initiatives, students will have opportunities to experience the ancient Mediterranean cultures with Eastern Orthodox and Muslim heritages.

Will you be there?!