Aubervilliers: The 'Voix et figures de l'esclavage' Civic Project Champions Diversity

For students from disadvantaged backgrounds, access to international cultural projects is a powerful driver of inclusion and empowerment. A high school in Seine-Saint-Denis has initiated a profound educational and remembrance journey to bring this ambition to life.

A proactive policy of international openness and public speaking

Located in a priority urban policy district in Aubervilliers, the Lycée Le Corbusier welcomes a student population predominantly from immigrant backgrounds and low-income families. To address these challenges, the institution has for several years deployed an intensive drive toward cultural and international openness, distinguishing itself through European sections and strong involvement in eloquence contests and theatrical creation projects.

Embodying history through a study trip and artistic creations

Named "Voix et figures de l'esclavage" (Voices and Figures of Slavery), this project brings together 30 eleventh-grade students for a trans-atlantic, interdisciplinary study. The grant from the fondation Veolia helps fund a ten-day study trip to the East Coast of the United States (New York, Washington, Gettysburg). This fieldwork directly feeds into an artistic creation phase supervised by professionals: the production of a podcast series and an original theatrical play highlighting historical female figures who are often marginalized.

Developing eloquence, autonomy, and self-confidence

This highly civic-oriented program allows students to deepen their understanding of the comparative history of slavery while expanding their reflection on racism and discrimination. On an educational level, theatrical practice and interview preparation strengthen their public speaking skills, independence, and self-esteem. The final productions will be shared with all 1,300 students at the high school, extending this inclusive experience across the entire school community.