Mercy Students Experience “Les Jeux de la Francophonie” at Wayne State University

Mercy High School French students recently had the exciting opportunity to participate in the inaugural “Jeux de la Francophonie” at Wayne State University, joining fellow high school French students from across the Detroit metro area for a day of language, culture, and community.

This unique event, sponsored by Bonjour Detroit, an organization dedicated to bridging the diverse Francophone communities of Michigan through cultural, educational, social, and economic initiatives, offered students a truly immersive experience. Throughout the day, students were surrounded by the French language and engaged in meaningful cultural exploration.

Students attended a variety of interactive ateliers (workshops) led by professionals and community members, each highlighting the richness and diversity of the Francophone world. Workshop topics included La Francophonie de Detroit et du Michigan, the cultures and histories of Guadeloupe and Martinique, the role of French in the automobile industry in Detroit, and the vibrant culture of Haiti. Other sessions encouraged students to explore movement and improvisation to express the spirit of La Francophonie, while some students had the opportunity to attend and experience an authentic French university course.

In addition to the workshops, students participated in themed games centered on music, food, expressions, and Francophone traditions, further reinforcing their language skills in a fun and engaging way. They also explored their creativity through a painting workshop and experienced martial arts conducted in French, adding dynamic and interactive dimensions to their cultural immersion. A highlight for many was participating in a French spelling bee led by professionals from “Épelle-moi Canada,” which challenged students’ language skills in an exciting and supportive environment.

A highlight of the day was the opportunity for students to connect and engage in conversation with university French faculty and students, exploring potential college pathways in French. Representatives and students from several universities—including the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Grand Valley State University, Eastern Michigan University, Central Michigan University, and Wayne State University—were present, offering valuable insight into continuing French studies beyond high school.

This experience provided Mercy students with a powerful reminder that French is not just a language studied in the classroom, but a living, global means of communication that connects communities both locally and around the world.