Urbanités

Country

France

Description

A group of non-profit organizations is pooling its resources to facilitate the exercise of citizenship for persons suffering various forms of discrimination (against impairments, ailments, migrants, women, etc.). Each person contributes with his personal skills to design two festive events each year (in winter and spring). These events are focused on a given neighbourhood and intended to involve the local population in various activities: drawing, painting, dance, participative outdoor theatre. Everyone assumes responsibilities, accepts to confront foreign gazes and to meet others. Some professional performers or artists are called upon this common work, which creates opportunities for new acquisitions. The collective in charge of the events makes sure the authorizations to occupy the public spaces are granted by the local authorities. The collective also coordinates the various artists and performers. For people with mental health problems it is an opportunity to regain confidence and discover their potentials and to face the outside world.

 

 

Aims

Areas

Leisure

Effectiveness

Since the events started 3 years ago, participation of the local population increased steadily. Some local inhabitants took part in last June's assessment of the previous event together with discriminated persons. Some impaired persons were able to come up with personal projects for social integration or employment based on the experience gathered on these occasions.

Sustainability

The action takes place twice a year on a regular basis since 2004.

Innovation

These events have noticeable effects in reducing stigma and reviving personal projects.

Added Value

These festive events create opportunities for open debates and public information involving local inhabitants on themes such as public health, citizenship or more specific topics.

Transferability

The action can be easily transferred after assessment of local resources with minimal financial and logistic requirements. Believing in the potential of individuals is the key element, considering the positive outcomes for inclusion, exercise of citizenship and struggle against discrimination.

Mainstreaming Potential

The "politique de la ville" national framework (actions centered on local development and participation of local inhabitants) supports initiatives for strengthening social ties in local urban areas. Funding is devoted to improve the capacity to live in harmony and prevent isolation, exclusion and violence.

Costs of the Project

These projects are mostly relying on voluntary participation. The yearly funding amounts roughly to 10,000 Euros for hardware, coordination meetings, advertising and conviviality expenses (food, drinks and such).

 

People involved in the Project (number of people and profession)

 

About 100 people with different professional backgrounds.

 

Strengths and Weaknesses of the Project

 

This action offers numerous possibilities for local partnerships, involvement based on mutual confidence in the capacity of all kinds of individuals. New partnerships are to be created with local authorities and institutions.

 

Contact Person for the Project