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An analysis of the Italian migratory situation shows that foreigners who work in the domestic sector and care for the elderly find themselves in a “blocked” situation without prospects of escape. This is parallel to a real “backlash” or “counter-attack” in terms of social representation and rights that affects Italian women. The article considers the impact of the creation of a number of immigrant women’s associations and the role of their leaders. It argues that the desire to participate in the public sphere has not lead to collective action for the improvement of the living and working conditions of immigrant women or to acquiring more rights.