Saturday, October 1, 2011

Slutwalk in Aix en Provence

I just finished lunch, making me comfortable for a little nap, when I saw a status on FaceBook: Slutwalk starting in Aix en Provence in less than two hours...
Since May 14th, I've been following several feminist blogs, and looking at the French seduction with another point of view. This was an occasion to meet other people with the same concern, and to do something more concrete.
It is the first time ever I take part to a walk, so I did not know what to expect. And I liked what I saw.

This one was organized by Slutwalk Aix. Apparently, it was a first for them too. And they did very well.

While we were gathering, people came to ask what this meant, and to discuss with us. One senior man, very polite, talked to some of us. It was rather a monologue, because we did not know what to answer: he agrees rape is a crime. But what can you expect if you dress to arouse men (he was careful not to call us sluts :-)).
He went on by explaining that two decision makers in one family is one too much. Guess who that can be. Finally (because the walk started) he explained that feminism was pure evil (his words), main reason for single parenthood, destruction of family, and frustration of husbands that could only revert to killing their feminist wives after a divorce. The guy was not joking...
Anyway, it was the time to keep moving.
Below is one shot during the walk, and at the end.

Most people were surprised, then smiling and welcoming.  All very cheerful.
However, someone poured a bucket of (hopefully) water on our heads... and when we prepared to part, we were told to be careful, since aggressions were likely to occur at that moment... I guess this is the reason why the walk ended in the middle of people shopping and walking.Sigh...

There was a bonus for me: among the walkers, I recognized a fellow blogger, owner of C'que mes pauvres mains racontent, who lives in Aix. We have been following each other for about three years, but had never met in person. Her solo on No means No would have made the deads dance, Passers by did. We agreed to meet again for a knitting tea. 

Emilie, this one is for you. Enlarge and look at the window in the middle...

Now, it's time for a nap. Have a good weekend!

8 comments:

houndstooth said...

Good on you for standing up for something you have strong beliefs about!

startare said...

A bientôt, et merci d'être venue! on s'est bien amusées...

neki desu said...

i can't believe that man is french!!! thought dsk was an isolated case.
and good for you for participating.

Nath said...

I don't beleive that man is representative of all men of all France. As you know I live in Arizona and I have met so many people with this kind of thoughts... Men AND Women...
Of course I don't beleive that all americans are like that !

Talking about french feminism... I prefer passover !
Bises ma belle et j'aime bien ton blog ! Nath

Rosemary said...

Way to go on participating in something you feel so strongly about....

Unknown said...

Way to go! I really admire your courage too!

Unknown said...

oh my goodness! I think you were all very patient with that man! I have to say – if I was there, listening to all that rubbish coming out of his mouth, I don't think I could have controlled myself!!

Hsin-Yi

Miki Willa said...

It is wonderful that this walk took place. Good for you taking part in it. It is so sad that there is a need for this kind of action. Keep up the good work.