Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Paris Charity Gala Proceeds Under Heavy Police Guard After Protests at Folies Bergère

Organizers describe the gala as apolitical, noting Pierre‑Édouard Stérin recently left its board.

Overview

  • The December 4 event at the Folies Bergère went ahead under a large police deployment after calls to disrupt it by CGT, Solidaires, Attac, Nous Toutes and other groups.
  • Around a hundred protesters gathered near the venue, with videos showing mortar‑type fireworks launched from the roof and police intervening outside.
  • Inside the theater, stink bombs were released and the program paused briefly before resuming, according to on‑site reports.
  • Organizers said about 1,500 guests attended to hear pitches from 12 associations, with a one‑night fundraising goal of up to €1 million.
  • The charity says all validated pledges go to beneficiary groups and reports €28 million raised since 2017, while its spokesman says Stérin no longer sits on the board or influences the jury.