toulon Champions Intergenerational Memory Project Amidst Rising Extremism
A new book,”The Heirs of Time,” connects elders who lived through the Provence landings with today’s youth,fostering historical understanding and resistance to far-right ideologies.
A Bastion of Resistance: Toulon’s Approach to Remembrance
In an era marked by increasing political polarization and the rise of far-right movements across Europe, certain initiatives stand out as beacons of hope. Toulon, a city with a strong historical identity of resistance, is doubling down on efforts to preserve and transmit its history to younger generations. This commitment is particularly poignant as some observers note a collective amnesia
influencing voter behavior, making the lessons of the past more critical than ever.
Josée Massi,the mayor of Toulon,emphasized the importance of the new book,The Heirs of Time,presented on the eve of Victory in Europe Day. The book is the culmination of an intergenerational project sparked by a 2024 request from the prefecture for Var cities to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Provence landings. Massi explained that the city wanted to create an action which would not last that the time of commemorations but which, on the contrary, would be part of time.
The project paired senior citizens who experienced the landings with children from local recreation centers, fostering a unique dialog and collaborative storytelling experience.
I am happy that the day before May 8, were we will together commemorate the victory on the Nazi invader, we are here all gathered to present this book, which is part of the duty of memory that is all the duty.
Josée Massi, Mayor of Toulon
A Collaborative Effort: From Anecdotes to Publication
Councilor Guy raynaut was lauded as the driving force behind the project, described as committed and motivated, obstinate and unifying.
The initiative involved young people from CM2 (fifth grade) through college, encouraging them to actively participate in preserving the stories of their elders. The book itself is a testament to collaborative spirit, bringing together diverse voices and perspectives to honor those who liberated France during World War II.
Massi expressed gratitude to Albert Merett for his anecdotes and illustrations, the Weconnect association for their publishing work, and the historical specialists who ensured accuracy. She also acknowledged the great witnesses who shared their memories of children, both so hard and so carrying hope
and the children who participated in the project.
The Duty of Memory: A Responsibility for Future Generations
the mayor concluded by emphasizing the crucial role of the younger generation in upholding the duty of memory.
The event culminated in a moving rendition of a resistance hymn, underscoring the enduring power of hope and the importance of remembering the past to safeguard the future.As studies show a decline in historical knowledge among young people, initiatives like The Heirs of Time are vital in ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten.
Let them all be congratulated, because today, it is on their generation that the duty of memory is based!
Josée Massi, Mayor of toulon
