The ax has finally fallen. Depardieu lost his knighthood of the National Order of Quebec, awarded in 2002. This award essentially serves to recognize and highlight an individual's exceptional contribution to the structure and dynamism of Quebec society.
• Also read: Gérard Depardieu was removed from the ranks of the National Order of Quebec
• Also read: Degrading and obscene remarks towards women: Gérard Depardieu could have the National Order of Quebec revoked
In addition to his role as Honorary President and Co-President of the Board of the Montreal World Film Festival, what extraordinary contribution does he make to Quebec society? I'm still looking.
One of the tasks of the Council of the National Order of Quebec is to ensure, and I quote: “the integrity, image and reputation of the Order”. What could be more obvious than that Depardieu is no longer worthy of holding this title! It didn't require much thought.
Did you watch the “Additional Investigation” program on this vile character last Thursday? It's disgusting!
In addition to making sexist and vulgar comments about women, like an old sex-obsessed uncle with wandering hands, Depardieu sexually harasses several women he comes into contact with. They're all targets, even a 10-year-old girl in a riding lesson who he watches salivating while commenting that women like to ride and rub their clitoris on the saddle pommel.
All we want to do is shout, “Go and get treatment!”
The most pathetic thing about this documentary is the complacency of the people around them and the neglect of the victims.
- Listen to Maria Mourani's column QUB radio :
Suicide of Emmanuelle Debever
Emmanuelle Debever threw herself into the Seine on December 7th, the day the Depardieu document was published. She was the first to publicly denounce him.
A gesture of terrible despair, a reflection of the suffering of the victims. A burden that they carry, an anger, a feeling of deep injustice, an anger that in this case is directed against oneself. I touch on this suffering of the victims far too often.
The shame and fear of not being believed and supported. Lose everything if we denounce. His career, the views of others.
This burden is even greater when the perpetrator has power, money, or popularity.
Archive photo, QMI Agency
Complacency of the artistic community
Perpetrators thrive on trivializing and normalizing sexism, sexual harassment and sexual assault. Very often these people continue their behavior because they are excused, tolerated or even encouraged by those around them.
In the case of Depardieu, the entire world of cinema and art is to be highlighted. It's just the tip of the iceberg. How many women, children and men were silent victims?
I was listening to a popular French program about the Depardieu case…it was the Complément d'investigation trial. Poor Gérard would have been trapped. In fact, it would be normal to make despicable comments when the curtain falls.
As Depardieu's lawyers say, this is not sexual harassment: “Gérard did Gérard.” Too bad!