PARLIAMENT OF WORDS, 12th SEPTEMBER

On 12 September 2026, the Parliament of Words came to Amadora, Portugal, as part of the city’s book festival hosted by Biblioteca Municipal Fernando Piteira Santos. Organised by Gerador, a partner in the ART4U project, the event created a space for young people to share their experiences, challenge stereotypes and bring important social issues into public conversation.

At the heart of the event were young people from disadvantaged communities, including those affected by the criminal justice system. Having previously participated in storytelling training organised by Gerador, they presented the results of their work through a series of powerful documentary films. Their stories explored racism, domestic and police violence, women’s rights, broader human rights issues and the experiences of LGBTQ+ people.

Each film offered a personal perspective on challenges that are often discussed without giving enough space to the people who experience them. Through documentary storytelling, the young creators turned their observations and lived experiences into compelling narratives that invited audiences to listen, reflect and question their assumptions.

Parliament of Words reflects the ART4U project’s belief that artistic expression and journalistic storytelling can strengthen democratic participation and promote social justice. By developing their media skills and sharing their work in a public setting, young people gained an opportunity to shape the conversation around issues affecting their lives and communities.

Held in the welcoming atmosphere of a book festival, the event connected personal stories with wider public dialogue. It was a reminder that meaningful change begins when people who are too often overlooked are given the space, tools and confidence to speak — and when the rest of us are ready to listen.