International Women’s Rights Day: A Legacy of Courage and Advocacy
On this International Women’s Rights Day, we turn our attention to Saint-Nazaire, France, to meet Pierrette Grisard, an 88-year-old engineer who dedicated her life to the fight for women’s rights. Her story is a testament to the courage and determination of those who challenged societal norms and risked everything to ensure women had control over their own bodies.
A Pioneer in a Restrictive Era
Pierrette’s activism began in the 1960s with the Planning Familial (Family Planning) organization, initially in Angers. This was a time when abortion was illegal and contraception was scarce. Undeterred, Pierrette took significant risks to help dozens of women access safe abortions. She recalls a time when simply obtaining contraception was a challenge, requiring importing diaphragms from England.
“As I pursued studies that weren’t accepted by men, I inadvertently became a fighter,” Pierrette reflects, highlighting the systemic barriers women faced in education and professional life. Her background in mathematics led her to be one of the few women accepted into engineering school, fueling her commitment to challenging the status quo.
Taking Matters Into Her Own Hands
Pierrette recounts the clandestine efforts to provide safe abortions, assisting women in traveling to England when possible. For those who couldn’t afford the journey, she collaborated with young medical interns, recognizing the desperation and risks women faced. “A woman who doesn’t want her pregnancy is willing to risk her life,” she states, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
To obtain the necessary medical supplies, Pierrette, her husband, and their children embarked on “vacations” to England, smuggling equipment back in their campervan. Despite the fear of being discovered, they persevered, driven by a deep sense of solidarity and a commitment to women’s well-being.
The Impact of Legalization and Continued Advocacy
The 1974 legalization of abortion in France, through the Weil Law, brought immense relief. However, Pierrette’s advocacy didn’t end there. She continued to work with organizations like “Choisir” (Choose), founded by Gisèle Halimi, and within the Socialist Party (PS), tirelessly fighting for gender equality.
A Call for Continued Progress
At 88, Pierrette remains a passionate advocate. She emphasizes the importance of educating both boys and girls, achieving equal pay, and remaining vigilant against threats to hard-won rights. She is particularly critical of the lack of gender parity in French politics, noting the low percentage of women heading electoral lists.
“It’s not the time to fall asleep,” she declares, embodying a spirit of resilience and unwavering commitment. Pierrette Grisard’s story is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and the importance of continuing to fight for a more just and equitable world.
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