October 16 marks a day of remembrance in France, honoring the memory of two teachers who tragically lost their lives during terrorist attacks. A minute of silence will be observed at 2 p.m. in all middle and high schools across the country in tribute to Dominique Bernard, the teacher stabbed to death in Arras, and to Samuel Paty, beheaded in 2020. This day will also be marked by moments of exchange and reflection within educational teams.
The murder of Dominique Bernard has revived terrible memories of the assassination of Samuel Paty three years ago. These two tragedies shook France and had a profound impact on the teaching community. Teachers are called to gather in their establishments, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., for a moment of exchange that is both human and educational. They will thus have the opportunity to support each other and find the right words to answer their students’ questions.
Emmanuel Macron took the opportunity to demand a careful re-examination of the files of radicalized people likely to be expelled from the country. The objective is to avoid any oversights in the procedure review process. The French president also wants his ministers to embody a tough policy towards those who spread hatred and terrorist ideologies. This determination displayed by the government aims to strengthen security and prevent future acts of violence.
The day of commemoration also includes a minute of silence at 2 p.m. in all schools, colleges and high schools across the country. Students will start their classes later, at 10 a.m., in order to be able to participate in this tribute. Gabriel Attal, the Minister of National Education, stressed that there would be no tolerance towards any act of protest or provocation during this tribute. Disciplinary measures will be taken and offenders will be reported to the public prosecutor.
At the same time, many municipalities have planned gatherings in memory of the victims. In Paris, a ceremony will take place at noon in front of the district town halls. In Arras, several thousand people have already paid tribute to Dominique Bernard, showing unfailing solidarity.
Security around schools has been reinforced, with the deployment of 1,000 security personnel from the Ministry of National Education. Gabriel Attal also wishes to initiate an in-depth discussion on security with all local authorities. France, already on “emergency attack” alert, plans to deploy 7,000 soldiers on the territory to guarantee the safety of the population.
This commemoration day is an opportunity to remember teachers who lost their lives in the exercise of their profession and to recall the importance of freedom of expression and education. It also demonstrates France’s determination to fight extremism and protect its citizens. A vibrant tribute, full of emotion, which highlights resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity.