A wave of feminist groups flooded the streets of France on Thursday evening, voicing their discontent with President Emmanuel Macron’s endorsement of Gérard Depardieu. The actor has been facing numerous allegations of sexual assault, and these collective demonstrations aimed to send a clear message: “Keep your old world, we want one without sexist and sexual violence.”
The heart of the protests was centered in Paris, where activists from various feminist organizations assembled. However, the movement did not confine itself to the capital city but also echoed in smaller protests across Toulouse, Marseille, and Lyon. The joint effort by these groups, known as the Feminist Strike Collective, released a statement inviting everyone who supports women’s rights and stands against sexist and sexual violence to join the rallies.
Since the #MeToo movement gained momentum, significant strides have been made in addressing sexual misconduct and advocating for victims. However, the Feminist Strike Collective expressed concerns that President Macron’s recent remarks threatened to undermine this progress. They accused him of making irresponsible, troubling, and sexist statements that disregarded the rights of victims and women and children as a whole.
In the bustling Place Saint-Augustin in Paris, approximately 400 people congregated, displaying placards adorned with powerful messages. Slogans such as “Patriarchy, You’re Stuffed,” “The Omertà Is Finished,” and “Let’s Break The Old World” resonated throughout the crowd as they voiced their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. These demonstrations occurred three weeks after Macron publicly defended Depardieu, referring to the allegations against him as a witch hunt. The French President even went so far as to declare himself a “great admirer” of Depardieu, claiming that the actor had made France proud.
The Feminist Strike Collective, spearheading these protests, is composed of several feminist and human rights organizations. Notable members include the Feminist Collective Against Rape (CFCV), the Fédération Nationale Solidarité Femmes (FNSF), the Human Rights League, Osez le féminisme (Dare To Be Feminist), and the Femen activist group. This diverse coalition of voices highlights the widespread support for the cause and a united front against sexual assault.
The demonstrations led by feminist groups in France reflect a growing discontent with President Macron’s support of Gérard Depardieu amid accusations of sexual assault. Activists from various feminist organizations took to the streets in Paris and other cities, aiming to uphold the progress made by the #MeToo movement and condemn any statements or actions that perpetuate sexist and sexual violence. The collective efforts of these groups reinforce the importance of standing together to protect the rights of victims and advocate for a world free from harassment and assault.