Demonstration Alert – U.S. Embassy Paris, France
(October 9, 2020)
Locations:
- Paris: Place Vendome, 1st Arrondissement, beginning at 3:00 pm.
- Strasbourg: in front of the Prefecture – Gathering at 11:00 am.
- Lyon: Place Bellecour at 2:45 pm.
- Rennes: Place de l’Hotel de Ville at 2:00 pm.
- Aix en Provence: Time and place TBD.
- Bordeaux: protest between Cours du Marechal Foch and Prefecture. Protest at 3:00 pm
- Other assembly points anticipated throughout the city.
Event: “La Manif Pour Tous” demonstration expected to take place on October 10 beginning at 3:00 p.m. The group intends to protest in opposition to the law opening marriage and adoption to same-sex couples (known as “marriage for all”) in France, and the rejection of the teaching of gender studies.
Antifa has called for a counter-protest at Place de la Concorde in Paris at 1:12 p.m. In addition, the Gilets Jaunes (Yellow Vest) group is planning a protest march from Gare du Nord to Porte de la Villette between 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Certain metro lines and other public transportation routes could be disrupted or closed. In case of violence or property damage, the French authorities may use chemical agents (tear gas) and water cannons to disperse crowds.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the areas of the demonstrations
- Exercise caution if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests
- Monitor local media for updates
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Keep a low profile
U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following:
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Paris, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22
U.S. Consulate General Marseille, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22
CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
France Country Specific Information
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