From Monday 13 to Friday 17 October, about 2,000 schools took part in the 22nd edition of the ELA Dictation.
Every year, the ELA Dictation brings together students, teachers and celebrities to support the fight against leukodystrophies, based on an original text written by a renowned author. Much more than a simple spelling exercise, this dictation provides an opportunity to address illness, disability, respect for differences and solidarity. It kicks off the “Wear your trainers and beat the disease” campaign.
This year, pupils discovered the text “L’oubliée”, written by Valérie Perrin, author of “Changer l’eau des fleurs” (Fresh Water for Flowers) and “Les Oubliés du dimanche” (Forgotten on Sunday). Many public figures from the worlds of entertainment, media and sport played the role of teachers for a day.
On Monday, 13 October, Brigitte Macron read the Dictation to a Year 7 class at the Collège Saint Exupéry in Vincennes, Paris, accompanied by Valérie Perrin and ELA President Crystelle Cottart.
Mrs. Macron reiterated her support for ELA and its cause: “I am extremely moved by this cause. What these children, some of whom are your age, are going through is impossible. They want a future. And we really need to help research progress so that things get better.”
She also congratulated the students and teachers, who have been loyal supporters of “Wear your trainers” since 2021. “I am very proud to see your commitment at your age. It is very important to be committed in life, it gives meaning, and you have understood this at the age of 12. You are teaching us lessons, so I am very happy to take part in this dictation.”
The next day, pupils at Suzanne Lacore secondary school in Paris were surprised to see Zinédine Zidane arrive in their classroom to read them the ELA Dictation! He was accompanied by ELA founder Guy Alba, who reminded the pupils how important their efforts are for children with leukodystrophy.
After a very studious session, our patron took part in a question-and-answer session with the pupils. It was an opportunity to look back on his commitment to our cause, which began in 2000, and on the importance of the Dictation in raising awareness: “This is an important moment for the big ELA family. You are in good health, but some are not so fortunate, so you are thinking of them by taking part in this Dictation.”
Across France and abroad, many people visited schools to read this 22nd Dictation. They helped make this national week of action a success and shone a spotlight on leukodystrophies.
Thank you to all our readers!
