Have you ever wondered why there are so many statues in Paris? The French are quite proud of their history and love to honor their heroes. But there are other heroes hidden in plain sight, heroes who fought for a better future and a more equal world. Take a closer look and you will find small monuments, like this one in front of you. It’s a bronze bust of Maria Deraismes. We know she was a French author, suffragette, and Freemason who fought relentlessly for women’s rights. From the inscription on the bust, we learn that she was born in 1828 and died in 1894. She was born in Paris and died in Paris too. But what makes this woman so special? Her bust may be small, but in her life, she achieved many great things. She understood that feminism was a political battle and she was the first woman to be initiated into Freemasonry in France. She helped found the International Order of Freemasonry, called the International Order Le Droit Humain, which allowed both men and women to become members. This was no small feat! Maria Deraismes was a pioneer for women’s rights in France and we can still see her legacy today! Now, you may be wondering why there are so many plaques in this square. It’s not just Maria Deraismes who deserves respect, but many people!
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.