MARIANNES NOIRES

By Kaytie Nielsen, Mame-Fatou Niang

Recent violence and growing nationalism in France have brought fierce debates about the country’s identity to the forefront. In this film, seven French-born women of African descent confront their unique identities and challenge the expectations of French society. Although some of these women had great privilege and others had nothing at all, each has attained a high level of success and influence. Despite their power, achievements, and leadership, however, they all survive systemic inequality regardless of class background or ancestral heritage. Here, they take us through their battles and retrace their most gruelling paths to understand the social confines that have affected them professionally, psychologically, and emotionally. They share their ideas and solutions to France’s most daunting issues at the heavy intersection of racism and misogyny - and they bravely lead the way forward.