CIRCLES OF SILENCE IN CONGENIES

Since 2007 the movement Cercles de Silence has grown up in France to bring together all kinds of people who want to witness against the systematic detention of illegal immigrants in Centres de Rétention Administrative (CRA).  Through silence, participants express their disapproval in a non-violent demonstration which allows them both to listen to their own consciences and to appeal to the conscience of fellow-citizens.

Such circles of silence are also motivated by the conviction that there are better ways than detention of dealing with foreigners who have broken the rules.  Each person’s dignity has to be respected.  Circles exist at present in more than 180 French towns including Alès and Nîmes, usually once a month.

For the past three months, inhabitants of Congénies and area, of differenet faiths (or none) have gathered in this way  for an hour – to walk or stand in a circle – you can sit if you need to.

We’ll be continuing to meet on the first Friday of each month until March 2011 from 1130 to 1230, in the village square, the Place du Jeu de Paume.  Please arrive around 1115 if possible.