Molières ceremony: challenged on stage by the CGT, the Minister of Culture responds strongly

While the Molières ceremony was coming to an end, a shortened ceremony (however exceeding by some 20' the announced duration of 2 hours) and very spirited, animated by Alexis Michalik with many successful animations, two actresses members of the CGT, Toufan Manoutcheri and Lucie Astier, are invited to deliver a speech on stage, questioning in conclusion of their intervention the Minister of Culture, Rima Abdul Malak : “When are you going to decide to come out of your silence? While your government colleagues spread lies, you say nothing; Since January 13, you have not answered the questions asked by the unions on the consequences of this reform for "intermittent" (a unique French work status in the artistic fields, translator's note) workers […]. Do you only have an opinion on the shows canceled because of energy bills, budget, or because of the extreme right? Madam Minister, we are not dogs or bitches and we will not return to the doghouse. To my brothers and sisters in the struggle, may the struggle continue, and long live the casseroles! [Applause from a large part of the room.]

In an improvised reaction, the minister then spoke in suppressed but visible anger : “Sorry, I know you don't have time… but that's fine. Usually, the role of the minister is to sit still and say nothing, but that is not possible. The phrase by Gérard Philipe that was said dates from 1957, a date when there was not even a Ministry of Culture. Today there is a Ministry of Culture which defends the cultural exception in the world, which defends the system of intermittence which is a source of pride for our country. You have a ministry that released massive aid during the crisis to support all of you and all sectors of Culture [applause]. You have a minister at the head of this ministry which obtained the highest historical budget (+7% compared to last year). Inflation, energy bills, I released exceptional aid to help the most fragile structures, you know, some unions are there [in the room]. Threats against shows, exhibitions? Each time I raised my voice to defend freedom of expression. “And to conclude on the impossibility of dialogue with the unions with appointments each time postponed or canceled: “I am here, my door is open, and good evening to all. [Loud applause… from part of the room.]

… And Alexis Michalik to resume the rest of the evening under the laughter of the room with a “Does anyone still want to express themselves… or are we good? ".