France's May commemorations spark fierce battles over history and identity
May has become a tense month in France as political divisions flare over historical commemorations. With recent mayoral elections bringing Rassemblement National (RN) officials to power, disputes over ceremonies marking the end of World War II, Joan of Arc, and the abolition of slavery have sparked controversy across the country. The clashes began in Vierzon, where an RN-affiliated mayor cancelled the public event for the May 10th National Day of Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Slavery. Officials cited budget cuts as the reason, though critics accused the party of downplaying the occasion. That same date also honours Joan of Arc, a figure long claimed by both the far right and traditionalists.
In Carpentras, a judicial investigation was launched after a Vichy regime anthem was played at an RN mayor’s event. The incident reignited debates about the party’s historical ties. Meanwhile, in Carcassonne, Femen activists disrupted an RN-backed Joan of Arc celebration, shouting slogans against the far right. The Left has responded by weaponising these symbols. In Nîmes, a Communist mayor refused to hold the usual Joan of Arc ceremony, prompting the local RN candidate to organise a rival event. The moves reflect a broader strategy to undermine the RN’s growing influence ahead of national elections. Against this backdrop, May 8th marked Germany’s surrender in 1945, while May 9th passed quietly as Europe Day—a date that traditionally draws little public attention in France.
The disputes reveal deep political fractures as the RN consolidates local power. Ceremonies once seen as routine have turned into battlegrounds over history and identity. With tensions rising, the coming months will likely see further confrontations over how France remembers its past.
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