In Montigny-le-Tilleul, it was on the initiative of Clémence Canet, alderwoman for Childhood and Youth, that a deeply human initiative was born: the creation of a municipal register of stars. This project was made possible thanks to close cooperation between the municipality, the Population/Civil Registry department and the non-profit organisation Au-delà des Nuages, represented by Ms Anna-Maria Polizzi.
This register allows parents to have the existence of a child who died before being officially registered with the civil registry symbolically recognised. It concerns in particular situations of early miscarriage, foetal death, medical termination of pregnancy or stillborn children who do not meet the legal registration criteria.
While it has no legal value, this register constitutes an essential human and symbolic recognition for many families. The municipality of Montigny-le-Tilleul considered it its role to offer this space for recognition, with respect for parents and their experience. Registration is done solely at their request, by appointment, with the Civil Registry or Population department.
The process is entirely free of charge. Upon registration, a symbolic certificate of recognition is given to the parents, while the registration is kept in a municipal register held by the administration. This project has no administrative, tax or inheritance consequences: it is exclusively a gesture of support and consideration.
Through this initiative, Montigny-le-Tilleul shows that a municipality can also act where the law does not always allow it, by placing humanity, listening and dignity at the heart of public action.
To find out more about the non-profit organisation Au-delà des Nuages: www.audeladesnuages.be
Do you also lead or know of an inspiring local initiative? Share it with the entire MR movement via the dedicated platform:https://www.mr.be/bonnesideeslocales