Biarritz: Court orders renaming of ‘La Négresse’ neighbourhood to preserve human dignity

On February 6, 2025, the Bordeaux Administrative Court of Appeal made an important decision regarding the naming of a neighborhood in the city of Biarritz. It ordered the municipality to rename the “La Négresse” neighborhood, a term deemed “racist and sexist” by the association Mémoires et Partages, which had taken the matter to court. This decision puts an end to a long-standing debate, following more than ten years of legal proceedings.

A Name Full of Stereotypes and Suffering

In its statement, the court explained that, regardless of the historical origin of the name or the memorial significance the city wishes to attribute to it, the term “La Négresse” today evokes, in a derogatory manner, the racial origin of a woman whose identity has not been formally identified. Furthermore, the court emphasized that this name may be perceived as offensive by residents or visitors, particularly those of African descent, and that it undermines human dignity.

The Mayor of Biarritz Ready to Fight for Tradition

The mayor of Biarritz, Maïder Arosteguy, responded to the decision by expressing her disappointment. She emphasized that the name of the neighborhood is part of a historical tradition that many Biarrots hold dear. According to her, this name has “no racist connotation,” but instead carries a symbolic meaning, representing a woman who freed herself from the constraints imposed by the status of slavery. She also stated that, while the decision is difficult to accept, she is considering appealing to the Council of State in an attempt to have the decision overturned.

A Three-Month Deadline to Change the Name

The court gave the city of Biarritz three months to change the name of the neighborhood, requesting that the mayor submit the decision to the city council, the only body authorized to approve such a modification. This ruling follows a judgment issued in December 2023 by the Pau Administrative Court, which had determined that the name “La Négresse” did not have a degrading connotation and was intended in a memorial spirit. The association Mémoires et Partages, believing that this analysis failed to consider the racist implications of the term, appealed, leading to the Bordeaux Administrative Court’s decision.

This case raises important questions about how historical traditions should be interpreted and the responsibility of institutions in using terms that may harm individuals or communities. It also highlights the tension between preserving local history and ensuring the dignity and respect of all citizens.