In a powerful act of defiance, French DJ and LGBTQ+ icon Barbara Butch carried the Paralympic torch, marking a profound statement against the hate she endured following her participation in the Olympic Games’ opening ceremony. Butch, a prominent figure in the French LGBTQ+ community, was targeted with online harassment, death threats, and insults after her appearance, reflecting the persistent challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the public eye.
“I chose not to be afraid to exist in the public space,” Butch declared in an interview before her public appearance in Saint-Cloud, a suburb of Paris. This moment was not just personal but symbolic, representing the resilience of those who continue to fight for visibility and acceptance in a society that often marginalizes them.
The abuse Butch suffered is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, especially those who are prominent in media and culture. Her decision to carry the torch, despite the hate, underscores the courage required to remain visible and assert one’s identity in the face of overwhelming adversity. This act also serves as a reminder of the critical need for greater protection and support for LGBTQ+ individuals against hate speech and harassment.
As Butch and nearly 1,000 other torchbearers carry the Paralympic flame across France, their journey shines a light on the importance of inclusion and the celebration of diversity. The relay, which involves former Paralympians, young para-athletes, and various advocates for people with disabilities, symbolizes the collective effort to promote a more inclusive society. For Butch and the LGBTQ+ community, this is more than just a relay—it’s a powerful statement of resilience and solidarity.
The Paralympic torch will ultimately unite in Paris, symbolizing the convergence of different struggles and identities into a single flame of hope and determination. For Barbara Butch, this moment is a testament to her resolve and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and recognition in France and beyond. Her journey with the torch is not just about carrying a flame—it’s about lighting the way forward for others who face similar struggles.
