A bookstore named Violette and Co. in Paris is currently targeted by a malicious campaign due to its display of solidarity with Palestine in its storefront.
In the heart of Paris, the lesbian and feminist bookstore Violette and Co has become a focal point of controversy and intimidation. The bookstore, known for its diverse selection of essays, LGBTQIA+ literature, and decolonialism works, has been targeted due to its support for and sale of certain books that have sparked backlash from trans-exclusionary radical feminist (TERF) groups and some parts of the online community.
The controversy centres around books critical of some aspects of transgender activism or exploring feminist perspectives that question gender identity politics. These include works by authors labelled as trans-exclusionary, such as Maia Kobabe's "Gender Queer", Janice Raymond, and Gina Rippon. Other literature considered "gender critical" or expressing skepticism towards aspects of transgender activism is also a subject of dispute.
Despite the backlash, Violette and Co defenders argue that their mission is to provide a safe space for diverse feminist and lesbian voices, including those with controversial perspectives. However, this stance has led to persistent cyberbullying campaigns, including coordinated harassment on social media, public calls to boycott or shut down the store, and threats of vandalism or physical violence.
The attacks on Violette and Co have been ongoing since the start of the summer, with the controversial books at the heart of the dispute provoking anger and harassment from opposing camps. A window display of books about Palestine, including a children's coloring book deemed "antisemitic" and "Hamas propaganda", has also been a point of contention. The words "HAMAS VIOLEUR" and "ISLAMO COMPLICE" are still painted on the storefront.
Despite the intimidation, the bookstore's customers continue to buzz among its shelves, showing solidarity with the team of Violette and Co. On August 13th, Patricia Dupourqué travelled across the city to support the bookstore, leaving a five-star review on its Facebook page. However, her visit and support were not directly related to the current issue of the attacks.
Ms. Dupourqué expressed concern about the intimidation methods faced by Violette and Co, but her fears were not specifically about the current issue of the attacks. She fears that such incidents may happen more often, highlighting the need for continued support and solidarity for the bookstore.
In summary, Violette and Co has become a flashpoint in the broader cultural conflict over feminism, transgender rights, and free speech. The bookstore's mission to provide a safe space for diverse voices has made it a target for those opposed to its controversial books. Despite the ongoing attacks, the bookstore's customers and supporters continue to stand by it, demonstrating the importance of free speech and diversity in literature.
- The controversy surrounding Violette and Co has expanded beyond the specific books, spilling into a broader cultural conflict over feminism, transgender rights, and free speech.
- The home-and-garden section of Violette and Co, normally a tranquil corner for browsing, now serves as a testament to the fierce lifestyle debates that have taken root in the heart of Paris.
