The 3rd edition of the Nos futurs festival, held in Rennes from March 21st to 24th, brought together feminist figures from past and present to discuss how feminist legacies are transmitted and transformed over time. Léane Alestra, a journalist for Manifesto XXI and editor-in-chief of the feminist independent media Mécréantes, shared her personal journey of experiencing violence and rape in high school, leading her to a deeper understanding of systemic issues and sparking her interest in feminism. Geneviève Fraisse, a philosopher of feminist thought, traced her feminist awakening back to the historic and political context of the student protests in 1968 and the women’s liberation movement in 1971. Fatima Ouassak, a political scientist and co-founder of the Front de mères collective, discussed her entry into feminism through personal and collective engagement, as well as her realization of the importance of feminism as a tool for empowerment for women of all backgrounds.
The participating guests at the festival, including Elvire Duvelle-Charles, a journalist and founder of the Instagram account “Clit Revolution” and the feminist film club Tonnerre, also shared their perspectives on how feminism has influenced their lives. Alestra, Fraisse, and Ouassak all highlighted different entry points into feminist activism, whether through personal trauma, historical movements, or political engagement. This diversity of experiences underscored the evolving nature of feminism and its ability to resonate with individuals from various backgrounds and life stages. Each guest brought a unique perspective to the discussions, shedding light on the intersectionality of feminist struggles and the importance of inclusive and diverse feminist movements.
The intergenerational dialogue between feminists from different eras at the festival revealed the complexities and challenges of transmitting feminist legacies. While each guest had a distinct path into feminism, they shared a common commitment to challenging patriarchal norms, addressing violence against women, and advocating for gender equality. The discussions also touched on the role of social media and online platforms in disseminating feminist ideas and mobilizing feminist activism in the digital age. Duvelle-Charles, in particular, emphasized the power of online communities in connecting feminists across geographical boundaries and amplifying marginalized voices in the public discourse.
The panelists at the festival also reflected on the ways in which feminism has evolved and adapted to contemporary social and political realities. From #metoo to the Black Lives Matter movement, feminist activists continue to confront new challenges and struggles in the fight for gender justice and equality. The intersectionality of feminist struggles was a recurring theme in the discussions, as the guests highlighted the importance of recognizing and addressing the multiple forms of oppression that women face based on race, class, sexuality, and other factors. By bridging the gap between past and present feminist movements, the festival provided a platform for critical reflection and dialogue on the ongoing struggles for gender equality and social justice.
In conclusion, the Nos futurs festival in Rennes served as a vibrant space for feminist activists to come together, exchange ideas, and reflect on the past, present, and future of feminist struggles. The diverse perspectives and experiences shared by the panelists underscored the ongoing relevance and urgency of feminist activism in challenging patriarchal structures and advocating for gender equality. By fostering intergenerational dialogue and exploring the intersections of feminism with other social justice movements, the festival highlighted the power of collective action and solidarity in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. As feminist legacies continue to be transmitted and transformed, the voices and experiences of women from diverse backgrounds will play a crucial role in reshaping the future of feminism and paving the way for a more just and equitable world.
