Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Swimming lessons at sea are being used as a way to reconcile migrants and asylum seekers with the water. In Canet-en-Roussillon, a town in southern France, the Welcome 66 association has taken up the task of teaching swimming at sea to refugees and asylum seekers. This initiative aims to help them overcome any fear or trauma associated with the sea, often experienced during their perilous journeys to reach safety.
The swimming lessons are designed to give participants the necessary skills and confidence to navigate the water safely. The Welcome 66 association believes that acquiring swimming abilities can be crucial for migrants and refugees, who often face dangerous situations at sea. By providing them with swimming lessons, the association hopes to reduce the risk of accidents and drownings, ultimately saving lives.
“For many migrants and refugees, the sea is both a symbol of hope and a source of fear,” said Marie Rives, the president of the Welcome 66 association. “By teaching them to swim, we are empowering them with a valuable skill while helping to alleviate their anxieties.”
The swimming lessons take place in the Mediterranean Sea, with experienced instructors guiding the participants. These sessions involve learning basic swimming techniques, water safety protocols, and strategies to stay calm in the water. The instructors are patient and understanding, creating a supportive environment where participants can build confidence in their swimming abilities.
“Swimming is not only about moving in the water; it’s about feeling comfortable and safe,” stated Jean-Luc Alonso, a swimming instructor with the Welcome 66 association. “By offering swimming lessons at sea, we are helping migrants and asylum seekers reclaim their relationship with the water and ultimately reintegrating them into society.”
The initiative has received positive feedback from the participants. Many have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn how to swim in a safe and supportive environment. Some have even commented on the positive impact it has had on their mental well-being, allowing them to confront their fears and develop a sense of empowerment.
Swimming lessons at sea can play an instrumental role in ensuring the safety and well-being of migrants and refugees crossing treacherous waters. By providing them with the necessary skills, these initiatives offer a lifeline in times of crisis. As the Welcome 66 association continues its mission to reconcile migrants with the water, lives are being safeguarded, and new doors are being opened for those seeking refuge.
For more information on the swimming lessons at sea initiative, please visit: [URL from content]
Reference:
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