François MITTERRAND supported women's rights in 1975.

François Mitterrand (1916.1996)

Typed letter signed to Mr. Lucien Noury.

One page in-8° on National Assembly letterhead.

Paris. September 22, 1975.

"They have the right not to be considered as perpetually dependent."

François Mitterrand, the MP for Nièvre, defends women's rights.

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"Dear Sir, I have received your letter and found it very helpful. I share your opinion regarding the combination of retirement and employment, which often leads to abuses. As for women's employment, we must consider not only the opinions of men but also those of women , who are full-fledged citizens. They have the right not to be considered perpetually dependent. Please accept, Sir, my best regards. F. Mitterrand."

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Women's rights gave rise to several legislative battles throughout the 20th century. While the Veil Law had just been passed, a few months before this letter, Mitterrand was considering the issue of women's work.

It is worth recalling some key dates in legal developments throughout the 1970s:

1972: The École Polytechnique becomes co-educational: a woman is the top student in the class.

1972: The principle of equal pay between men and women is recognized.

1974: Creation of the State Secretariat for the Status of Women (Françoise GIROUD).

1975: Opening of the first shelter for battered women, in Clichy.

1975: The obligation of coeducation in all public educational establishments is created.

1975: The law authorizes voluntary termination of pregnancy (abortion), known as the "Veil Law".

1975: The law authorizes divorce by mutual consent.