Toulouse: the Laicité Diversity space celebrates its 10th anniversary
Located in the Saint-Aubin district of Toulouse, the Diversités Laïcité space is celebrating its 10th anniversary. This place, created in 2012 to fight against discrimination, is the only one of its kind in France.
“It is an important service, which remains the only one in France.” launches the mayor of Toulouse Jean-Luc Moudenc, about the Espace Diversités Laïcité de Toulouse (EDL). This place, housed in a former garment factory, in the district of Saint-Aubin includes, in nearly 2000 m², an LGBT center (lesbian, gay, bi and trans community) as well as the “Diversity Equality Mission” service of the Toulouse town hall.
Created in 2012, the objective of the EDL is to fight against discrimination, and to promote human rights and secularism. Each year, nearly 200 events, such as round tables, exhibitions and conferences around various subjects such as sexual orientation, racism, or even disability, are organized at the EDL. These events are an opportunity for the town hall of Toulouse to raise public awareness, and in particular young people, of the different types of discrimination.
30,000 people welcomed each year
“It is a meeting place, but also a support for community life.” says the mayor of the pink city. Indeed, the EDL works with 250 associations, and supports more than 80 associative projects each year.
The EDL welcomes nearly 30,000 people a year, some of whom attend meetings held each week by members of partner associations. “This makes it possible to guide Toulouse residents and provide them with benevolent support, in complete confidentiality.” specifies the institution.
“It’s a welcoming space that allows people from Toulouse to come and discuss subjects that are sometimes taboo. It’s a secure space where everyone can come and express themselves.” explains Fella Allal, municipal councilor in charge of the fight against discrimination.