COUNTRY OF TRADITIONS

The Jura knows the value of these crafts whose precise gesture has been repeated for centuries. It was therefore important for the Republic and Canton of Jura to join the European Days of Artistic Crafts for the third time, after 2015 and 2016.

These crafts play a dual role: that of perpetuating ancestral know-how, but also of specializing our region. Professions linked to the equestrian world, for example, make Franches-Montagnes a place full of recognized and sought-after specialists in different fields. Beyond keeping a tradition alive, these people bring added economic value that must be highlighted.

In a land where traditions rub shoulders with the most modern technologies, it is important not to leave these professions in the domain of the past. The world is changing, of course, but know-how, precision, quality are sought-after aspects. It is therefore the duty of the authorities to make these unequaled gestures, these mysterious workshops and these passionate people known. To the public already, because they deserve recognition; but also to the youngest, because they are the ones who will perhaps one day embrace a career in these rare professions.

The Republic and Canton of Jura would like to thank the various partners and the ten craftsmen who generously agreed to open their workshops. They make it possible for JEMA 2018 to take place and, by the same token, for citizens to meet all these guardians of memory.

Martial Courtet
Minister of Education, Culture and Sports