“Unity through culture”: Moldovan children’s project in France, funded by BRD
A cultural project aimed at the Moldovan community in southern France, funded by the Office for Diaspora Relations (BRD), seeks to strengthen cultural identity and connections with the Republic of Moldova. This initiative involves the development of a Romanian language school and the organization of educational activities. The project is spearheaded by the Province-Est Association in Avignon and specifically targets children from the diaspora. Eudochia Turchin, the organization's president, discussed the initiative in an interview with the "Zi de Zi" show on Radio Moldova.
Eudochia Turchin shared, "This project was born from a desire to support the personal development of the community, particularly the children in the Provence region of France." She emphasized that the initiative plays a crucial role in "maintaining and strengthening the ties between the Republic of Moldova and the diaspora community located here in Provence, specifically in the town of Avignon."
The project, aptly titled "Unity Through Culture, Resistance Through Nobility," aims to promote national identity abroad and consolidate the image of a united community. "The goal of this project was to create and develop a Romanian language school in Provence while also maintaining our cultural identity and strengthening our connection with the Republic of Moldova and our roots," Turchin explained.
In parallel, the association has made significant strides in developing a Cultural Educational Center in Avignon, including Romanian language courses and the activities of the "Nicolae Donici" Library. The organization's president highlighted the community's involvement and efforts to train teachers.
"We have made progress, and we are proud of our hard work. We have dedicated individuals who are deeply committed," she stated. Turchin noted that three teachers have already been certified through training organized with a specialized agency from the Republic of Moldova, and Romanian language courses are currently being offered for children.
Additionally, the center runs the "Fairy Tales at the Gate of the Diaspora" reading club, which aims to stimulate children's interest in reading in Romanian. Representatives from the association report that the number of beneficiaries is increasing, with more children participating in educational activities.
Regarding community collaboration, Eudochia Turchin remarked on both the openness and unity among members and the challenges faced. "The challenges include misinformation and keeping people engaged in the long term. However, slowly and with great enthusiasm, we are striving to remain active," she said.
The Province-Est Association aims to build trust in sustainable projects and foster connections between the diaspora and those back home, thus contributing to the preservation of cultural identity among new generations.
Author: Svetlana Sîrbu
