The councilwoman stated that "it is in childhood that we begin to build the values that will guide tomorrow's citizens," emphasizing the need for children to understand the importance of respecting others, equality, and accepting differences.
These remarks were made during the commemorations of the Municipal Day of Equality, observed on October 24th. In Ponta Delgada, the event took place at the Centro Natália Correia, featuring the puppet show “A cidade dos mil jeitos de ser” (The City of a Thousand Ways of Being), performed by animators from the Municipal Network of ATL for over a hundred children aged 9 and 10.
The initiative used theatrical expression in an accessible and pedagogical manner to address equality, promoting reflection on respect for differences and the importance of inclusion and non-discrimination.
Cristina do Canto Tavares highlighted the value of playful and creative approaches in conveying essential values to new generations, stating that "learning also happens through play, shaping future citizens." The councillor added that through theater and other activities, important messages can be delivered simply and engagingly, helping children grow up more aware, responsible, and supportive.
The promotion of equality, the councillor stressed, should be a daily and collective commitment, present in all contexts of children's growth and learning, from home to school. "We want our children to grow up in a society where all people feel respected and valued, regardless of their differences. Educating for equality is also educating for citizenship, empathy, and a more just society," she concluded.
