Towards recognition of state responsibility

It often takes just a few photos to bring back memories… Bernard Bosset was hounded because he was gay, at a time when such orientations could land him in prison. The Senate has just recognized state responsibility until 1982 for this discrimination, but without voting on compensation. “It’s not the amount that can fix mistakes. It’s simply saying: ‘We made a mistake.’”Bernard Bossuet confirms. He was 23 when an evening with a young boy brought him to court.

“must be done”

At trial, he was insulted and sentenced to a heavy fine. His ruling is published in a local newspaper. “Since then I have been ashamed. I arrived with this sign (…): “I was a delinquent. I was sick””Bernard Bossuet testifies. Likewise, between 1942 and 1982, more than 10,000 people were convicted.

The draft law aims to rehabilitate them. “We have to do this while there are still people alive. Tell these victims: We heard you. We respect you and express the nation’s regret.”“, points out PS Senator Hussein Borji. Until 1992, the French state classified homosexuality as a mental illness. For associations fighting homophobia, recognition of the state’s role in this discrimination was essential.