The Théâtre le Rouge Gorge, located in the heart of Avignon, denounced this week what it described as recurring sexist behavior towards women working at its box office since the start of the Avignon Festival. The alert was published in the form of a message titled "Stop Sexism at the Box Office," shared on the theater's social media accounts.
Inappropriate comments, glances, and gestures
According to Harold David, shareholder of Le Rouge Gorge and managing director of Avignon Festival et Compagnies, the organization that coordinates the Off Festival, the accounts received describe verbal remarks, persistent stares, and violent and inappropriate gestures, particularly directed at young women working at the reception desk. He specifies that this type of aggressive and disrespectful behavior is especially prevalent when women hold these front-line positions.
Harold David states that he strongly condemns these actions and reminds everyone that fundamental respect is required in an event that is supposed to be festive and joyful, where nothing can justify such behavior, in his opinion.
A support unit has been set up for victims.
The deputy director of the Off Festival reminds everyone of the existence of a support unit located in the Off Festival Village, a central meeting place for professionals and festival-goers, where reports can be filed. He also specifies that verbal and physical assaults remain subject to legal action, with sexual and sexist insults potentially punishable by a fine.
According to Harold David, this public statement aims to make this subject a shared concern for all professionals at the festival, with the idea that the more the issue is raised collectively, the more the message that such behavior is unacceptable can take lasting hold.
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