Towards a More Inclusive Society: the UTELE Project
By targeting often marginalized groups such as migrants, the elderly, and people with disabilities, this project aspires to create a space for dialogue and sharing where everyone can find their place.
Through biographical workshops and theatrical activities, the project encourages participants to share their stories, experiences, and discover the common ground that unites them. This approach helps break down prejudices, strengthen social cohesion, and foster empathy among individuals.
The project's specific objectives are multifaceted:
- Facilitating the integration of migrants: By familiarizing them with the culture and customs of their host country, the project helps migrants feel more at ease and build connections with local communities.
- Reducing the generational gap: By bringing together young people and the elderly, the project values the experience of seniors and allows young people to better understand the challenges related to aging.
- Promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities: By giving a voice to people with disabilities, the project aims to change perceptions and combat discrimination.
- Supporting disadvantaged youth: By offering spaces for expression and exchange, the project empowers young people facing difficulties to develop their self-confidence and envision their future.
The UTELE project is situated within a context marked by several challenges:
- Migrations: Global conflicts and climate change are causing significant population movements, necessitating effective integration policies.
- Aging population: The number of elderly people is increasing, raising questions about intergenerational solidarity and support for the elderly.
- Social inequalities: People with disabilities, migrants, and disadvantaged youth often face difficulties in accessing services and opportunities.
The UTELE project is an innovative initiative that addresses major societal challenges. By emphasizing dialogue, sharing, and creativity, it contributes to building a more inclusive and supportive society. The results of this project could inspire similar initiatives and contribute to a better understanding of the issues related to diversity and inclusion.
Key terms:
- Social inclusion: The process of integrating people who are marginalized or excluded from mainstream society into all aspects of community life.
- Intergenerational dialogue: Communication and interaction between people of different generations.
- Biographical workshops: Activities that encourage participants to explore their life stories and experiences.
- Theatrical activities: Drama-based exercises that promote self-expression, empathy, and collaboration.
Potential applications:
- Curriculum development: Incorporate elements of the UTELE project into educational programs to promote intercultural understanding, empathy, and social justice.
- Community engagement: Partner with local organizations to create opportunities for intergenerational and intercultural exchange.
- Professional development: Attend workshops or conferences to learn more about the methodologies and approaches used in the UTELE project.
By understanding the principles and practices of the UTELE project, educators and social workers can contribute to creating more inclusive and equitable learning environments and communities.
English Com’Eddy Theatre (Bordeaux -France) - APCALMADA Associação de Professores do Concelho de Almada (Almada – Portugal) - Balamo's Teatro Aps (Ferrara – Italy) - Patronato Municipal Educación y Bibliotecas (Zaragosa – Spain)
