“Femmes debout represents the meaning of dignity; I stand up and try to face the difficulties I encounter by accepting help from others,” this is how Yassia Boudra explains the proud name given to the association by her son at its founding nearly 30 years ago.
At that time, the resident of Jura was concerned about what was happening in her neighborhood and realized that women were almost absent from the scene. The doorways, stairwells, benches, and the only bar in the area were exclusively frequented by men. “It was also a way to give them visibility,” she emphasizes.
She began with a few friends to listen to these women, especially single-parent families, and discovered that they faced significant challenges in raising their children, including financial difficulties, social connections, and access to leisure activities. Gradually, actions were taken to support them.
With over 3000 people now passing through the association annually, it has gradually grown, and two main areas have been established:
- a “public service” area that assists with all administrative processes related to daily life, housing, health, pensions, disputes with social landlords, social security, and the renewal of residence permits... Additionally, for migrants, there is French language learning, as language is a vector for social and professional integration.
- a “violence” area that has developed notably thanks to the 1st DAPAT award. Today, there are 2 emergency shelter apartments available through 115, the presence of a psychologist, and a daytime reception where women can come to rest, get information, and take further steps if they wish.
"Femmes debout" also offers training for justice and healthcare professionals to create a network in the area, acting as facilitators for directing women. The association also organizes events to raise public awareness and intervenes in schools for prevention purposes.
“We do not claim to have a magic wand, but we want to provoke questions,” explains Yassia Boudra. “This is a way to shift the lines and influence public authorities, making them understand the necessity of prevention, conducting information campaigns, so that they can reach every household.”
