- ATD Fourth World

« Thanks to you, we lived better days and the sun came back in our sky and in our hearts. We really want to thank you again. The best which is within you and for you, all united on this beautiful planet, the earth that belongs to every one of us. A billion kisses. » (Florence) « Here are the caravans! I have been hearing about them for such a long time! A great week-end with people full of energy, ideas and warmth! … Good luck for the continuation of your journey and see you on the17th of October in Paris! » (Fanny) « In our consumerist society to the outmost, at least, here, solidarity, sharing, listening, exchanging are at heart of the system which dashes and progresses towards revolution. » (Barbara)

Like at every stop, the parade in the neighbourhood draws the attention of the inhabitants and invites them to join us.

« This way of going out to meet every one is a wonderful approach. Sometimes, some miss out what you are doing, but others take a step towards us and will take over what you say, what you do… Even the small things that can seem superficial, but that can bear fruits later, when we don’t expect it anymore. » (Bruno)

These two girls proudly surround the puppet that they just made.

« This rendez-vous in Nantes gave us the possibility to get to know you and to recognize you. It was rich in exchanges, in encounters, in capstan knots, in bamboos, with Janine, with Henri, with Boubacar, with Jessie, … Thank you for your zest, for your capacity to integrate external contribution, bonne route, and all the best for your future, bravo. » (Denis)

Myriam is telling the story which stages a couple of puppet characters.

Janine : « I just spent two wonderful days. As soon as I saw the invitation in my mail box, I felt that it wasn’t a festivity like the others, which end up badly most of the time. But I didn’t imagine that it would be so great, with so much joy. It’s sheer happiness. I would like it to last for ever, at least, I wouldn’t be bored on my own… Well, I have children (I have 17 children), but they all have things to do, it is not easy. I have good neighbours too. They bring me my bread every morning. But this is such a celebration! And I was able to say what I thought and people listened to me! There should be no more misery. Misery is too unfair. »

Afad, a sports instructor in the neighbourhood, during a writing workshop.

Clotilde goes over the exhibition "Sing against extreme poverty".

Aminata (the mother of Boubacar): « I came late because we woke up late this morning [she laughs] and still the house needs tidying. This evening, I prepared dinner for the children and I made this for you, because you are organizing a great party. This is both for children and grown-ups. You don’t often see people all come together in this way. Such a joyful time! At noon, Boubacar was happy: "It’s nice being with them [speaking about the caravan]. The photographer allows me to take pictures. The others are also like my friends." I have watched you through the window for a long time, and I saw that you are good people. So, I made up my mind to come down. I told it to a neighbour but she did not show up. »

During the parade, the caravaneers, the passers-by and the neighbourhood started dancing.

It’s easier to make a farandole with one’s family…

A festive meal

As she was about to leave Myriam said: "Some great team you have here! How patient you are! It’s admirable how you’re able to work as a team. Every one listens and it all goes so well!!! As for me, I generally do things on my own. I think, I rush straight ahead, I make suggestions and hope that things will work out… But some people asked me to come back. I will think it over with Maria and local people. And why not? It could be great to make things work with in a team… »

A festive meal, with dishes brought by the caravaneers, friends and neighbours, put an end to this friendly week-end, during which the many revellers shared many beautiful things and demonstrations of solidarity.

A little folk dancing with Janine, the youngest lady in the neighbourhood.