Date: December 12, 2025
Location: 3 RUE du Réservoir, La Rochelle
Admission: Free
Event Description:
This unique event offers visitors an opportunity to participate in a storytelling workshop focused on the personal experiences of Free France veterans. Designed as both an educational and commemorative program, the workshop emphasizes the transmission of historical knowledge and civic values through oral histories.
The event begins at 10:00 AM with an introduction and overview by association coordinators. Participants will learn about the importance of oral history, the methodology of recording testimonies, and how storytelling helps preserve memory. This introduction will highlight the connection between personal narratives and broader historical understanding, emphasizing the role of individual experiences in shaping collective memory.
From 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, participants will engage in a storytelling session, where recordings and live presentations from veterans are shared. Each veteran will recount their experiences during World War II, focusing on critical moments of resistance, acts of bravery, and reflections on the values of freedom and solidarity. Volunteers will facilitate discussions after each story, encouraging participants to ask questions and reflect on the lessons conveyed.
At 11:30 AM, a hands-on workshop segment allows attendees to practice documenting oral histories themselves. Guided by association members, participants will learn how to record, transcribe, and contextualize narratives in a way that preserves authenticity and historical accuracy. This interactive segment empowers visitors to contribute to the preservation of memory actively.
From 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM, participants will participate in a commemorative ceremony, paying tribute to the veterans whose stories were shared. This ceremony includes a symbolic act of remembrance, a brief speech emphasizing civic responsibility, and a discussion on how contemporary society can continue to uphold the values demonstrated by Free France.
The workshop concludes with closing remarks, summarizing key insights and encouraging participants to continue exploring history, engaging with veterans’ stories, and supporting initiatives that preserve historical memory. Participants are invited to join future events, volunteer with the association, and share their experiences to inspire others.
This event is ideal for students, history enthusiasts, researchers, and members of the public interested in understanding the human side of historical events. By combining storytelling, practical engagement, and commemoration, the workshop offers a comprehensive, immersive experience that emphasizes the enduring relevance of memory, civic responsibility, and historical education.
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