Description
Belgium is a unique laboratory, constantly tested by its diversity; both the one that predated the creation of the Belgian state between Flemings and Francophones, and the one related to migration. It is in a constant quest for a formula for living together, sometimes undermined by signs of identity withdrawal or discrimination against minorities.
The strong presence, at all levels of education, of a population of immigrant origin is a major asset in Belgium. Today, our young people are seeking a history that integrates their origin and the contribution of their parents to the well-being of European societies. The school institution has thus become a school of otherness, and it requires teachers of otherness.
Living together and working together necessarily involve valuing and recognizing the other. Mutual ignorance hinders shared life experiences, respect, and the well-being of all. This recognition should notably take the form of teaching the history of immigration and reminding us what we owe to others and the contribution of immigration and emigration.
In Belgium, more than 400,000 people are of Moroccan descent, and this presence predates 1964, the date of the signing of the Convention for the Employment of Moroccan Workers. Since the early 20th century, these men and women have contributed, in Europe, to the fight and war efforts of both world conflicts, then to the coal rush and industries, indispensable engines of our economy. Today, they actively contribute to the social, cultural, and economic development of the country.
In Belgium, they have also played a decisive role in demographic growth and, here and there, they have fought for equality and the recognition of human rights.
At a time when people of the “first generation” are slowly giving way to the next, choosing now to be buried in Belgium, one of the ambitions of this exhibition is to bring them out of oblivion.
It is essential for their descendants, as well as for all of us, to show them our recognition by giving them a place in our history books. Their story has become our common story and has shaped our collective destiny.
Ahmed Medhoune, Andrea Rea, Fatima Zibouh
Curators of the exhibition and publication “Belgica Biladi”