ERASMUS+, Key Action 1: youth exchange
Dates: 13—21 December 2024
Venue: Wisła, Poland
National team: 9 participants (aged 15—18) + 1 group leader
Please read the info-pack.
Hosting organisation: Stowarzyszenie ArtEco
Project report:
Dzień dobry! Welcome to Poland, a place of breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and vibrant traditions. From the 13th to the 21st of December, representatives from Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Poland, and Türkiye gathered in the picturesque town of Wisła to participate in the Erasmus+ project “Youths’ Vision Fighting Hate Speech.” This inspiring initiative brought together young people from different cultures to explore the concepts of stereotypes, prejudice, and hate speech, and to learn how youth can take an active role in combating these issues.
Our team was composed of about nine representatives from each participating country, creating a truly diverse and enriching environment. Upon arriving in Wisła, we were greeted by our wonderful Polish organizer and a flurry of snow, which set a magical tone for the week ahead. While waiting for the rest of the team to arrive, we had time to explore the charming town of Wisła.
The project was meticulously organized, with each day offering a blend of workshops, team activities, and cultural exchange. One of the highlights was a visit to the nearby city of Bielsko-Biała, which added an extra layer of discovery to our experience.
We began the week by breaking down the definitions of stereotypes, prejudice, and hate speech, discussing their roots, impacts, and how they often intertwine. Through group work and creative activities, we shared examples from our respective countries, learning to recognize unconscious biases and how they can evolve into harmful behaviors. A key component of the project was a public outreach effort on Instagram via the account https://www.instagram.com/erasmus.yvfhs where we documented our progress and shared insights to raise awareness about fighting hate speech. Additionally, each group presented case studies and proposed solutions, which strengthened our public speaking and collaboration skills.
In the evenings, we immersed ourselves in the cultures of the participating countries through “Intercultural Nights.” These were truly special moments where we could taste traditional cuisines, learn folk dances, and even participate in interactive games like Kahoot, which helped us remember key facts about each country. These cultural exchanges fostered a deeper appreciation for diversity and created a strong bond among participants.
The project not only improved our English communication skills but also gave us a deeper understanding of how stereotypes and prejudice evolve into hate speech. We gained tools and strategies to raise awareness and advocate for inclusivity within our own communities. Most importantly, we formed long-lasting friendships that we will cherish forever.
This Erasmus+ project was more than just a learning experience—it was a celebration of cultural diversity and youth empowerment. As we return to our respective countries, we carry with us the knowledge we gained, the friendships we formed, and a renewed commitment to combating hate speech.
To sum it up, Erasmus+ creates opportunities that not only educate but inspire change. A heartfelt thank you to all the organizers, participants, and everyone who made this project possible. Let’s continue to be the change we wish to see!
Eliška
