Around 150 people gathered in Diksmuide on Sunday for the 97th Yser Pilgrimage, an annual event honouring Flemish soldiers who fell in the First World War.
This year’s theme focused on equality, with five speakers from various civilian backgrounds offering insights.
A teacher shared her class’s involvement in a social divide-related experiment conducted by journalists from the newspaper, De Morgen.
Author and theatre director Dominique Willaert addressed the topic of co-existing amidst inequality.
Ivo Mechels, president of Genzinsbond, a Flemish families union, traced the organisation’s roots to the Yser region. He spoke of the many post-War women and children who found themselves alone, leading to the establishment of the Gezindsbond in 1921.
Zanna Vanrenterghem, from the Climate Coalition, stated that the fight against climate change also signifies a fight for equality.
Lastly, Nils Duquet, director of the Flemish Peace Institute, discussed the subject of peace through politics.
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“Our approach evolves as times change,” declared De Belder, president of the Yser Pilgrimage organising committee.
“Although our message remains timeless. Our aim has shifted from wanting more of Flanders to seeking a better Flanders. Today, it’s less about increasing autonomy and more about enriching it, to create a hospitable Flanders where everyone matters.”
The ceremony traditionally concludes with the laying of wreaths in honour of all the victims of the war, accompanied by the Flemish Lion anthem.
