Legacy of Brigitte Bardot Inspires Calls for Government Action and Fundraising Initiatives

Following the death of Brigitte Bardot at age 91, significant tributes and advocacy efforts have emerged to honor her legacy as a stalwart defender of animal rights. Bernard d’Ormale, Bardot's partner for three decades, responded to President Emmanuel Macron's proposal for a national tribute by underscoring Bardot's preference for a simple burial and suggesting the government create a secretariat of state dedicated to animal welfare. He emphasized that such a move would align more closely with Bardot’s life mission and called for an end to hippophagie, the consumption of horse meat. Despite Macron praising Bardot as a national icon, she had previously criticized him for his insufficient action on animal welfare, notably in a letter expressing her frustration with his leadership.

In parallel, singer Jeanne Mas has pledged to continue Bardot's animal protection efforts through personal fundraising initiatives for the Brigitte Bardot Foundation. Mas plans to sell her two gold records and organize a tour, including a concert in Paris's Grand Rex in May, aiming to raise significant funds to support the foundation’s work. She praised the foundation's efforts, which have included rescuing elephants, wolves, and malnourished horses, and expressed a long-term desire to acquire land to assist animals directly. Mas also advocated for the creation of a Ministry of Animals, urging President Macron to act before his term ends.

Bardot’s funeral will be held privately in Saint-Tropez on January 7, with Marine Le Pen expected to attend. These developments highlight ongoing commitments by Bardot’s close associates and supporters to strengthen animal rights protections in France, reflecting the spirit of the activist’s lifelong cause.