Political Leaders Condemn Brigitte Macron’s Crude Remarks on Feminist Activists
Brigitte Macron, the French First Lady, recently sparked controversy over her remarks about feminist activists during a comedy show in Paris. On a Sunday evening, she referred to members of the #NousToutes collective as “dirty cunts,” following their interruption of comedian Ary Abittan’s performance. This disruption was in protest of the allegations of sexual assault against Abittan, which ultimately led to an investigation being closed without charges.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred at the Folies Bergère in Paris, where Brigitte Macron expressed her support for Abittan, who faced accusations from 2021. During the show, four activists from #NousToutes shouted “Abittan is a rapist” and wore masks depicting the comedian’s face as part of their protest. Despite the closure of the investigation and subsequent affirmation of non-guilt in court, public dissent against Abittan has persisted.
Reactions from Political Leaders
Brigitte Macron’s comments have provoked backlash from various political figures across the spectrum.
- Marine Tondelier, ecological party secretary, criticized the remarks as “serious” and inappropriate for a First Lady.
- Ayda Hadizadeh, a socialist deputy, condemned her comments as “indecent and deplorable,” emphasizing the importance of women’s voices in the #MeToo movement.
- Aurélie Trouvé from La France insoumise also noted the “crude insults” from the First Lady and called for an apology.
- Agnès Evren, a spokesperson for the Republicans, added that the remarks were sexist and unexpected from Brigitte Macron.
- Julien Odoul from the National Rally expressed shock at how Abittan has been treated publicly.
- Prisca Thévenot, a former government spokesperson, wished for a more elegant choice of words from Macron.
Contextual Defense from Brigitte Macron’s Circles
In response to the uproar, Brigitte Macron’s entourage clarified her intent. They asserted that her comments should be understood as criticism of the radical methods used by the activists. They emphasized that Brigitte Macron does not condone such radicalism. According to her close team, she had planned to attend Abittan’s show for several days, indicating that her support was not spontaneous.
This incident has amplified discussions around feminism, activism, and the public roles of political figures. As the community continues to address these sensitive topics, Brigitte Macron’s comments have opened a wider dialogue on the intersections of feminism, art, and activism in contemporary society.
