Breaking Gender Stereotypes in Carlet: A Journey of Democracy and Equality

The Erasmus+ project "The New Values of Democracy in Today’s Europe" recently completed a successful mobility in the heart of the Valencian community. From September 29th to October 3rd, 2025, students and educators from across Europe gathered in Carlet, Spain, to explore the foundations of modern democracy and the vital role of gender equality.

Challenging the Status Quo

The core mission of this meeting was clear: to examine and challenge the societal norms that limit potential. In Carlet, gender stereotypes were dismantled through active dialogue, research, and shared experiences. By focusing on the historical and contemporary contributions of women, participants gained a deeper understanding of how true democracy requires the equal representation and empowerment of all citizens.

Highlights of the Programme

The week was packed with educational activities that bridged the gap between theory and practice:

• Historical Perspectives: Each delegation presented the lives and achievements of influential women from their respective countries, creating a mosaic of female leadership in Europe.

• Field Research & Industry: Students conducted "street work" to collect data on local perceptions of equality and visited an Agricultural Cooperative. This visit was crucial in analyzing the essential role women play in the region's production chain and economy.

• Interactive Empowerment: Through a "Gynkana" game, students discovered female icons in science, art, and politics, while the "Socarrats" workshop allowed them to connect with Valencian heritage through the traditional art of ceramic tile painting.

Cultural Immersion in Valencia

Beyond the classroom and the research sites, the mobility offered a rich cultural experience:

• An exploration of the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences (CAC) and the Oceanogràfic.

• A journey through history in Valencia’s city center, visiting the Cathedral, the Central Market, and the Miguelete Tower.

• Breathtaking landscapes at Albufera Lake and the Mediterranean shores of Cullera and Patacona.

A Celebration of Unity

The mobility concluded with a vibrant display of Spanish hospitality. A live paella cooking session accompanied by the upbeat rhythms of "Charanga" music brought everyone together to celebrate the bonds formed during the week.

This experience in Carlet proved that when young Europeans collaborate, they don't just learn about democracy—they live it, breaking down barriers and stereotypes to build a more inclusive future.