We are Charlie

Living here in France through this tragic episode, we have been struck by the impact it has had throughout French society.  The spontaneous gatherings and demonstrations to show sympathy, solidarity and belief in French values, have not just been confined to Paris and major cities.  Our local town of Gourdon held a 'rassemblement' on Thursday midday followed by another meeting yesterday, Saturday mid-morning at the local market.  We think that many French people have felt this attack on free speech as almost a personal attack, an attack on their right to speak freely.  A French couple who we know very well expressed their views that this attack has made them want to reaffirm their French identity despite the many doubts and criticisms they have felt about the France of today.

People, as individuals, are wanting to express their support for this emblem of 'liberté', of Republican France, in whatever way they are able.  This next week, in a room in the town hall at Gourdon, a gentleman is staging an exhibition of his collection of the magazine, 'Charlie Hebdo', almost as his own act of defiance against the extremists.

 Today, Sunday, is to be a day of demonstration in Paris, attended by European leaders.  We see that, to help the public attend, if they wish, buses and the metro in Paris are free and rail fares to Paris are reduced.  It would seem that these terrible events have had a unifying effect on French society.  It remains to be seen to what extent they will alter French politics, which has already shown a drift to the Right.