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Paris

First Impressions of Paris

In my previous post, I discussed the feminist elements we anticipated in the Paris 2024 Olympics. The opening ceremony really showcased the power of women in an amazing way.

Up until the Paris 1900 Olympics, women weren’t allowed to take part in or even attend the Games. Over the long history of the Olympics, there have been events that were only open to men or women. It’s been 124 years in the making, but the Paris 2024 Olympics have finally achieved gender parity among athletes. To reach this milestone, the competition format had to change a lot, including moving the final event from the men’s marathon to the women’s marathon, which is pretty unusual. This shows that there’s a wider push to challenge traditional ideas about gender and promote equality.

The emblem for Paris 2024 is inspired by Marianne, the figure representing liberty, equality, and fraternity, famously depicted in the painting “Liberty Leading the People.” This emblem symbolizes the spirit of France and the Games. Marianne is a powerful symbol of the French Republic, embodying the country’s ideals of freedom and equality. By choosing Marianne as the emblem, Paris 2024 highlights its commitment to these values, particularly gender equality.

The opening ceremony shows Paris’s commitment to becoming the most gender-equal Olympics in history. During the “Sororité” (sisterhood) segment, the French flag formed by a woman’s dress, symbolizing the birth of a nation that values and respects women. As a women’s choir sang the French national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” ten golden statues of pioneering women in French history rose in the rain. These women—directors, explorers, judges, politicians—were celebrated on this worldwide stage for the first time. The broadcast included brief introductions of their contributions and their impact on societal progress in six major languages.

This segment was particularly moving as it highlighted the often overlooked contributions of women to society and history. By featuring these statues, the ceremony paid homage to the resilience, strength, and achievements of women who have paved the way for future generations.

One of the most striking moments was a female rider, draped in the Olympic flag, crossing the Seine River on a silver horse. This scene, reminiscent of a triumphant Joan of Arc, led the flag bearers from each country towards the flag-raising ceremony, leaving a lasting impression. Joan of Arc is a symbol of courage and determination, and this portrayal emphasized the powerful role women play in shaping history and culture. The opening ceremony took place on the Seine, which itself is named after a goddess.

Paris 2024 is aiming to show the world the strength and leadership of women, and I’m excited to see what the closing ceremony will bring under the direction of this talented team. The feminist themes woven throughout the Games will inspire a new generation of athletes and spectators, highlighting the importance of equality and the ongoing struggle for women’s rights. I’m looking forward to watching the closing ceremony.

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