On September 13 the historic town hall of Tarnów became the venue of an inspiring debate attended by key members of the Forum for Dialogue Network: Izabela Sekulska, Ireneusz Socha, and Jolanta and Jerzy Stelmach. Open to the wider public, the meeting brought together individuals involved in grassroots work for memory, dialogue, and the reinterpretation of the multicultural heritage of Polish cities.
The discussion, moderated by Hanna Gospodarczyk from Forum for Dialogue, focused on the role of local activists and the challenges of grassroots work. Members of the Network presented a variety of paths of engagement, often rooted in personal motivation: from long-term educational work with young people based on direct contact with history, to activities centered around the neglected Jewish cemetery in Mielec, which evolved into a broad commemorative initiative connecting the local community with Jewish descendants of former residents. The importance of consistency and of combining educational activities with artistic creation was also emphasized.
The debate in Tarnów—the second of the planned promotional meetings within the NET4CALL project—served as an example of a gathering aimed not only at exchanging experiences, but also at shaping attitudes and approaches to caring for memory, heritage, and dialogue. Thanks to the practical examples and personal stories shared, the audience, including some less experienced activists and new members of the Network, gained valuable tools and inspiration for futher grassroots initiatives.
The meeting was intended to raise awareness of Jewish heritage and to foster sensitivity to the dangers of prejudice and stereotypes, thereby counteracting antisemitism. The debate underscored that memory is a dynamic process requiring constant care, and that local initiatives form the foundation for broader change. Forum for Dialogue Network serves as a key space for support and inspiration.
