The “Beloved Suburbs” exhibition, held at France’s Museum of the History of Immigration, has drawn more than 150,000 visitors, with a significant portion being young people of color. Many of these visitors have expressed a deep sense of recognition with the exhibition’s themes, with one visitor stating that they “really recognize themselves in the exhibition.” The exhibition features a wall display titled “Dream suburbs,” where visitors could add messages expressing their aspirations for a more just society, including their hopes for less racism and less violence.
Curated by a collective of artists and historians, the exhibition explores the complex history of suburban development in France, with a particular focus on its impact on communities of color. The exhibition includes photographs, personal stories, and interactive installations that highlight the struggles and resilience of these communities. The “Dream suburbs” wall, in particular, has become a focal point for visitors, with messages that range from hopes for equality in education to demands for safer neighborhoods.
One visitor, a 19-year-old student from Marseille, shared their experience with the exhibition, stating, “It was the first time I felt like my experiences and struggles were being acknowledged in a public space. This exhibition has given me a sense of solidarity and hope that I didn’t know I needed.” The museum has reported a significant increase in visitor engagement, with many visitors taking the opportunity to reflect on their personal histories and the broader social issues facing their communities.
Curator and historian Marie Dubois noted that the exhibition’s success lies in its ability to create a space for dialogue and reflection. “We wanted to create a platform where people from diverse backgrounds could share their stories and aspirations, and I think we’ve managed to do that,” Dubois said. The exhibition is set to continue for another month, with plans to expand to other European cities, aiming to reach even more young people of color and foster a sense of community and hope.