Middle Schoolers Mark 80th Anniversary of Strasbourg’s Liberation
An Unforgettable Encounter
During a school trip to Strasbourg, middle school students from Saint-Joseph College in Périgueux experienced a moment they’ll never forget: a chance encounter with President Emmanuel Macron. The trip, which took place from November 18 to 24, was organized to mark the 80th anniversary of Strasbourg’s Liberation, a historic event the students had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand.
“He shook our hands and asked the students what classes they were in. He told us that it is important to be transmitters of memory, before going to other groups,” recalled Jean Margez, a professor of history and geography at the Périgueux college.
A Symbol of Unity
The students’ trip was part of an ongoing exchange program with Nelson-Mandela College in Illkirch-Graffenstaden, located just outside Strasbourg. This special partnership reflects a powerful historical connection forged 80 years ago when over 100,000 Alsatians fled to the Dordogne region following the declaration of war with Germany.
“The announcement of the pantheonization of the historian and resistance fighter Marc Bloch aroused enthusiasm, especially since most of the young guests had worked on the Resistance and the Liberation with their history teachers,” added Margez.
Remembering the Past
Beyond the official commemorations, the students from Périgueux were immersed in the rich history of Strasbourg. They visited iconic sites like the European Parliament, delving into the heart of the continent’s political landscape.
The Past Also Came Alive Through
a compelling theatrical performance titled “Archival Lyrics.” Created by Sabine Lemler, this unique reading show depicted the fate of the Alsatians during World War II, poignantly recounting the evacuation of Alsace in 1939 through a blend of theater, poetry, and education.
Even today, the historical bond between Strasbourg and the Périgord region is palpable. Numerous streets in Strasbourg bear the names of Périgord towns that opened their doors to evacuated Alsatians during that tumultuous time: Périgueux, Thiviers, Nontron, Brantôme-en-Périgord, Clairvivre (Salagnac), Hautefort, and Les Eyzies. These street names serve as a permanent reminder of the enduring connection forged in the face of adversity.
What was the specific historical event that the students commemorated in Strasbourg?
## Interview with Madame Dubois, History Teacher at Saint-Joseph College
**(Interviewer)**: Madame Dubois, your middle school students from Saint-Joseph College recently returned from a remarkable trip to Strasbourg. Could you tell us about their experience?
**(Madame Dubois)**: It was an incredibly moving experience for all of us. The trip was planned to coincide with the 80th anniversary of Strasbourg’s Liberation from Nazi occupation [[1](https://www.coe.int/en/web/portal/-/statement-by-the-secretary-general-on-the-80th-anniversary-of-the-liberation-of-strasbourg)]. Being able to witness the commemorations firsthand provided an invaluable lesson in history for the students.
**(Interviewer)**: I understand the trip included an unforgettable encounter.
**(Madame Dubois)**: Indeed! President Macron met with our students during the events. He shook their hands, asked them about their classes, and stressed the importance of remembering and sharing this important moment in history. It was a truly inspiring moment for the children, one they will surely treasure forever.
**(Interviewer)**: What did the students learn from this experience beyond the historical facts?
**(Madame Dubois)**: This trip brought history to life for our students. They connected with the past on a personal level, understanding the sacrifices made for their freedom. Witnessing the commemorative events and meeting the President instilled in them a deep sense of responsibility to carry this memory forward and become “transmitters of memory” as President Macron encouraged them to be.
**(Interviewer)**: Thank you, Madame Dubois, for sharing this inspiring story.
