Brigitte Macron's Controversial Remarks Spark Feminist Backlash

Brigitte Macron, the First Lady of France, faced significant backlash after a video surfaced in which she referred to feminist activists as "stupid bitches" ("sales connes") during a private conversation with comedian Ary Abittan. This incident occurred backstage at a theater on December 6, 2023, following a protest by activists from the feminist collective #NousToutes, who interrupted Abittan's performance. The activists were protesting against Abittan, who had been accused of rape in 2021, although the case was dismissed in January 2023.

New York Times

The video of Macron's remarks quickly went viral, leading to the trending hashtag #SalesConnes on social media. In response to the uproar, Macron issued an apology, stating, "I am sorry if I hurt women victims," while also asserting that she could not fully regret her comments, emphasizing her right to express herself privately.

France 24

Following the incident, various feminist groups and political figures condemned Macron's remarks. The collective #NousToutes expressed that they were "extremely shocked and outraged," while MP Sarah Legrain criticized Macron for insulting feminists fighting against sexual violence. Green party leader Cyrielle Chatelain described the comments as "an insult to all activists and all victims." Despite attempts by Macron's office to frame her comments as a critique of the activists' methods, the backlash persisted.

Daily Mail

The response from feminist groups was swift and pointed. Activists criticized Macron for her choice of words, arguing that it undermined the serious issues surrounding sexual violence and the #MeToo movement. Judith Godrèche, a prominent figure in the #MeToo movement, publicly supported the activists by embracing the term used by Macron in her own social media posts. The incident highlighted a broader tension in France regarding the treatment of sexual assault allegations and the societal response to activism against such issues.

France 24

While Brigitte Macron's comments were widely reported, there is some discrepancy regarding the context and intent behind her remarks. Macron's spokesperson characterized the comments as a critique of the activists' "radical methods," suggesting a defense of her language. However, many critics argue that the language used was dismissive and harmful to the feminist cause.

France 24

The fallout from this incident may lead to further discussions about the role of public figures in addressing sensitive social issues, particularly in the context of the ongoing #MeToo movement in France. The incident has also reignited debates about the treatment of sexual assault allegations in the media and public discourse.

Daily Mail

• “I am sorry if I hurt women victims,” — Brigitte Macron, First Lady of France

France 24

• “A spokesman for Mrs Macron said at the time: 'This exchange should only be seen as criticism of the radical methods used by those who, wearing masks, disrupted Ary Abittan's show on Saturday evening to prevent the artist from performing.” — Spokesperson for Brigitte Macron

Daily Mail

• “And I support everyone else.” — Judith Godrèche, Actress and #MeToo Advocate

Daily Mail