Week Against Racism and Anti-Semitism at the University of Montpellier

[Press Release] - Published on March 11, 2026 in Press Room, Environmental Issues and Social Responsibility

From March 23 to 27, 2026, the University of Montpellier is organizing another edition of its week-long campaign against racism and antisemitism.

Through a program combining exhibitions, webinars, conferences, and film screenings, the university reaffirms its commitment to equality, inclusion, and the fight against all forms of discrimination. As the first French university to receive the Alliance “Gender Equality and Diversity” Label issued by AFNOR,UM its in-depth work to provide everyone with the tools for understanding, reflection, and action. This year, the week dedicated to combating racism and antisemitism invites us to examine the mechanisms of racism and antisemitism, to reflect on the intersection of oppressions, and to bring to light experiences that are often rendered invisible.

This week's wrestling schedule at the University of Montpellier (registration required)

University of Montpellier, Triolet Campus

On Monday, March 23, at 12:30 p.m., the opening reception for Hélène Jayet’s exhibition “Chin Up!” will take place. The project explores curly or coily hair as a space for experimentation, struggle, and the affirmation of identity. With their chins held high, the subjects of this mosaic of portraits assert their presence and reclaim their image. A cartography of memory and pride in African heritage where generations, cultures, and styles intersect. Open to the general public, the exhibition will run from March 23 to April 24. Two guided tours, with the artist in attendance, will take place on Thursday, April 16, and Tuesday, April 21.

Via video conference

On Tuesday, March 24, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and on Thursday, March 26, from 12:12 p.m. to 1:45 p.m., two webinars to raise awareness about racism and antisemitism. Key statistics, stereotypes, legal definitions, the consequences of such violence, and tools for taking action and responding: these sessions will provide the essential guidance needed to identify, understand, prevent, and combat racist situations and discrimination. One session is for students, and one is for staff.

On Wednesday, March 25, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., a lecture titled “Is a World Without Oppression Possible?” by Emilia Roig. Drawing on real-life examples, Emilia Roig, a Ph.D. in political science and author, will shed light on the mechanisms of intersectionality and the dynamics that shape our societies. Through her analysis, she will invite participants to shift their perspective, question their assumptions, and understand the deep interconnections between patriarchy and racism—systems that shape our social realities, often behind the scenes. Open to the general public.

University of Montpellier, Richter Campus at the Aimé Schoenig Student Union.

On Wednesday, March 25, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., “The Trial of the Century,” a biopic by Mick Jackson. The film chronicles the journey of historian Deborah Lipstadt, a Holocaust scholar, who finds herself sued by David Irving, an extremist scholar who denies the reality of the Holocaust. Summoned to appear before British courts, she is forced to prove the existence of the gas chambers to refute the accusations. Facing an opponent willing to do anything, she fights, within the bounds of the law, to prevent the spread of his Holocaust-denial theories. Open to all audiences.