France: Rainbow lights on Eiffel tower for Bastille Day criticised by equal marriage opponents
Bastille Day celebrations at the weekend, which included lighting up the Eiffel Tower in rainbow colours, have come under criticism by opponents to equal marriage in France.
Despite denials by French authorities that the light show was to signify equal marriage, opponents took to Twitter to criticise images which appeared online.
During the annual lights show, a man’s voice was heard on a voiceover saying: “All living beings – man, woman and child – walk in the same vein: equality,” as accompanied by music.
“Every human being is a shade of this rainbow palette,” it continued, reports France24. “For every human, the same opportunities.”
Supporters of equal marriage tweeted images of the rainbow light display, using the hashtage “#mariagepourtous”, meaning: “marriage for all”. The hashtag, and slogan, were used heavily during the lead up to France passing equal marriage legislation.
Those opposed to equal marriage and gay rights, tweeted in response, calling for the resignation of French President Francois Hollande.
According to reports, however, the Paris city hall denied that the rainbow lights were to advocate for equal rights, and instead were a tribute to Nelson Mandela, former South African President.
