In a powerful display of unity, thousands of protesters flooded the streets of France, demanding an end to sexual violence. This massive movement unfolded just two days ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, amplifying the urgency of their message.
On Saturday, Paris became a vibrant sea of purple as men and women marched together, brandishing placards that boldly condemned gender-based violence and championed women’s reproductive rights. The protests were not just a local affair; reports indicate that around 80,000 people participated in Paris alone, with 400 organizations rallying for change. Smaller cities also saw significant turnout, including 1,500 demonstrators in Renne, showcasing a nationwide commitment to this critical cause.
Voices of Concern and Solidarity
Among the issues raised, protesters expressed alarm over potential threats to women’s rights in the United States, particularly with the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. Concerns were heightened by Vice President-elect JD Vance’s previous remarks advocating for a national abortion ban, although he later suggested that states should set their own policies. This backdrop of uncertainty fueled the urgency of the protests in France, where abortion rights were enshrined in the constitution earlier this year, a historic move in response to the erosion of reproductive rights in the U.S.
Solidarity was also a key theme, particularly for Gisele Pelicot, whose harrowing story of being drugged and raped over a decade ago has drawn national attention. Her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, along with 50 co-defendants, is currently on trial for these allegations. Maelle Noir, a representative from the feminist collective Nous Toutes, poignantly highlighted the pervasive nature of violence, stating, “Unfortunately, anybody can be a perpetrator of violence. It can be our brothers. It can be our fathers. It can be our colleagues. It can be our bosses.” This stark reminder resonated deeply with the crowd, emphasizing the need for collective action against such atrocities.