First in line in the struggles for human rights, whether feminist, ecological or geopolitical, the American Jane Fonda is a model for many generations. The arrests, the sit-ins, the fiery speeches, the global star, timeless muse of L’Oréal Paris, carries the word loudly and the slogan, without ever denying herself.
You are certainly one of the most legitimate voices to speak out on feminism and human rights. So what are the courageous decisions to take – as a priority – for a more egalitarian society?
Jane Fonda : First of all, feminism and human rights are the same thing. The United Nations made this clear 70 years ago and Hillary Rodham Clinton reaffirmed it in 1995. As for our list of actions to take, let’s keep in mind that sexist and racist issues, for example, are closely linked , so everything is a priority. Like start by protecting our planet from climate change, since it’s our only spaceship. It is no surprise that women have been leaders in all environmental movements of the past and present centuries. This naturally implies enshrining and enforcing as law, everywhere, our fundamental right to reproductive freedom and health, followed closely by the rights to education, employment, equal pay, mobility, civil rights and above all protection against violence – in the family, at work, or in times of war
In her first work, author Racha Belmehdi questions “female rivalry” which undermines the concept of sorority and its power to collectively advance the cause of women. In these women’s quarrels, the winner could be patriarchy and misogyny, analyzes the author who spent years working in the fashion and show business industry. Is the enemy of women women?
JF : I am more nuanced. This old cliché has long been refuted by, firstly, the great Simone de Beauvoir in 1949 and secondly, fraternity and solidarity through the enormous global women’s movement . Only small pockets of society – perhaps some fashion and show business industries – still attempt to propagate such notions. But even in these universes, they become a minority. Let’s focus on Maria Grazia Chiuri , first female artistic director of the House of Dior, recipient of the Legion of Honor and noted proud feminist, who works with women, cites feminists as her creative inspirations, funds feminist causes and cherishes her friends – just like me.
How can we give women self-confidence so that they stop feeling imposter syndrome even when they have been brilliantly successful?
JF : To the extent that this “syndrome” still exists, it is a side effect of “age”: my generation being, in a way, “transitional” women, emotionally conditioned to preserve internal feelings of unworthiness , even when we know very well intellectually that we are as or more worthy than anyone else. But remember, feminism is renewing itself. Young people recognize themselves most in terms of feminism through a real self-identification with its values. Surveys have revealed that over a 24-year period (1992-2016), young people aged 18 to 24 increased their identification to double in number, from 21% to 42%. This reflects general trends. In fact, as younger generations become involved, feelings of imposter syndrome will thankfully prove inadequate.
What do you want to say to these women who doubt their worth?
JF : Patriarchy, the paradigm that tells us that men are in control and women must be submissive, has made women doubt their worth, encouraged our silence and consent. Ladies, understand that your doubts are imposed on you, and fight to earn the confidence that is yours.
How do you manage to boost your confidence?
JF : Hang out with feminists. Study the meaning of patriarchy. Befriend women and girls who have found their voice.
Any advice on self-confidence for the younger generation?
JF : Don’t think that because you are young your voice can be rejected. You have a point of view that deserves attention, you can teach your elders a lot, so the future may depend on your action.
The global #metoo wave has strained male/female relationships in all sectors of society. And now ?
JF : Rather than straining relations between the sexes, #Metoo has instead exposed issues such as previously hidden acts of manipulation, the pressure, the violence, the pain, the grief, the lifelong damage weighing on the survivors. Exposure to these realities must occur before we can begin the journey toward healing. Only then can we transform our values, which must – and will – change. New studies in International Affairs show that peace agreements last considerably longer if women are involved in the negotiations, in detail: 70% of these pacts last 20 years or more. One reason is that women naturally insert solutions to many other community problems into the agreement, problems that often lead to larger conflicts. As for whether the increasing integration of women in political decision-making has had a real effect on the conflictual behavior of nations, new studies find that the exponential emancipation of women – and not just the rise of democracy itself – even – supports democratic peace. Let us know that the growing political commitment of women now has a major impact on the social order.
As an early muse of L’Oréal Paris, what does the famous slogan: “Because you’re worth it” inspire you? »
Jane Fonda : It inspires me that I have value as a human being and that I deserve to treat myself with respect while expecting respect from others.
