Podmiotowość i wspólnotowość w amerykańskiej koncepcji settlement i polskich programach integracji migrantów w społecznościach lokalnych

Abstract

Contemporary discussions about the European countries' problems of hosting masses of migrants are the leading themes of various cultural and educational debates, in particular, around the reflection on humanitarian solutions to the problem of mass influx of foreigners coming to Europe. The question is raised on processes of adaptation of citizens with different nationalities and cultures, as well as on current understandings of the idea of multiculturalism, tolerance and respect for human rights. The aim of the article is to show the topic, still nor studied to greater extend, on how local communities engage in the integration and inclusion processes towards migrants and asylum seekers. The 19th example of the Hull House project from Chicago, USA shows how the problem was addressed by local social networks at a time when Europeans were migrating. The authors ask in this context, whether and to what extent, in modern times, the active role of local communities and their citizens is and/or should be more significant in actions and debates on national and international social policies towards migrants. A number of contemporary local initiatives in Poland are shown as the examples of the ordinary residents response to the possibilities and implementations of local actions aimed at integrating and engaging new comers in the society.