"Stupid b*tches": Brigitte Macron slur sparks feminist backlash in France

• First lady called activists “stupid b*tches,” prompting social media protest
• Feminists argue comments downplay sexual violence and legitimize hatred
• #SalesConnes trend gains support from high-profile actresses and public

France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron is facing criticism after a video surfaced showing her describing activists as “stupid b*tches” (“sale connes” in French).

The remark came in response to a weekend protest targeting comedian Ary Abittan, who has been accused, but not charged, of rape.

Her office said the comments, made backstage, were meant to criticize the “radical method” of the protest rather than the activists themselves.

- Activists fight back -

The remark has sparked a feminist backlash online, with high-profile actresses like Marion Cotillard posting, “I’m a stupid b*tch. And proud to be one,” alongside the hashtag #SalesConnes. The tag has also appeared on walls across Paris.

The activist group #NousToutes reminded Macron that dropped cases do not equal innocence, stressing that sexual violence remains a serious issue. “The stupid b*tches send you their regards, Brigitte,” read one public message from the protesters.

- Background on the protest -

On Saturday, protesters interrupted Abittan’s stand-up show, wearing masks with the word “rapist” and chanting accusations. A woman accused the comedian of rape in 2021, claiming he forced a sexual act without consent. Investigators dropped the case in 2023, and an appeals court upheld the decision in January, with Abittan’s lawyer stating, “The court found him innocent after an inquiry lasting more than three years. The case is closed.”

Investigating magistrates acknowledged the accuser experienced “undeniable” post-traumatic stress but cited inconsistencies in her statements. French prosecutors dropped six of 10 rape or sexual assault cases last year for insufficient evidence, according to a government report.

- Calls for accountability -

Feminist groups, including Greve Feministe, condemned Macron’s language. “They legitimise hatred toward feminists, who are already the targets of cyberbullying, death threats and assaults, and they downplay the severity of sexual violence,” the collective said.

Brigitte Macron herself has faced gender-related cyberbullying and filed defamation lawsuits in France and the US over false claims. The controversy comes amid a series of high-profile sexual assault cases in France following the #MeToo movement, including actor Gerard Depardieu’s recent convictions.