Democracy - French style

 

Today I ran an errand, driving through the nearby town of Siorac on my way to Le Buisson.  As I approached the substantial roundabout, beautifully planted with a plane tree and other foliage, I saw a confusing scene.  Folks in reflective vests on every entré to the roundabout, a couple of tractors parked on the outskirts.  A couple of people with bullhorns.  People with clipboards.

At first I panicked, worried this was one of not-infrequent police stops.  But, I wasn't doing anything wrong so I calmed.  Then I watched the interaction between the car ahead of me and one of the folks in the reflective vests.  She offered a clipboard; she had a conversation.  So, I readied myself to inform her I wasn't French, just an American who lived here part time.

My turn came, and after Bonjours I informed her of who I was.  She said, in a mix of French and English, that that was no worry.  She asked if I wanted to sign - and only if I wanted to - because a local teacher was being laid off.  I looked around.  30-40 people in vests, tractors, bullhorns.  I am American, I said again.  No matter, where do you live?  Just down the way.  Do you want to sign?  Oh.  Absolutely.  First name.  Last Name.  Village.  Signature.

Yes, please.  This is how democratic society works.  Viva la France!