After several days of shock and reflection, a campus event is being held to pay homage to the victims of the terrorist attacks that took place in Paris, and around the world, on Nov. 13.
The ETSU Société Française (French club) is hosting “Je suis Paris: Solidarity with France” on Monday, Nov. 23, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on the terrace outside the D.P. Culp University Center.
“We would like to announce ‘Je suis Paris: Solidarity with France,’ an assembly open to any student, faculty/staff member, and citizen of the world who desires to show his or her solidarity,” said Karen Harrington, ETSU’s French department coordinator, in a university-wide email.
There is a movement sweeping Paris called “je suis en terrasse,” where Parisians are gathering together on the terraces outside of cafes — much like the ones where drive-by shootings occurred — to show their bravery. This event is meant to mirror that movement.
“The ETSU community is invited to join together “en terrasse” (on the terrace) outside The Cave in order to stand up to terrorists who would prefer the French and others affected by these events to hide in fear inside their homes,” Harrington wrote.
Matthew Jennings, president of the Société Française, said this is a positive opportunity to show support in the face of such a terrible tragedy.
“This gives the community a chance to come together in a much more positive way than a memorial or vigil,” Jennings said. “This is something that’s close to a lot of the students and faculty in the department of literature and language, but it definitely resonates with others as well. Hopefully this gives everyone a chance to meet with one another in a positive setting.”
Free hot beverages such as coffee, hot chocolate and tea will be provided in limited quantities.
“This event aims to demonstrate our combined respect and support for those who willfully resist a life lived in fear,” Harrington added.
