Lisette Lapointe, a significant figure in Quebec’s political landscape, recently published her memoirs titled “De Combats et d’Amour.” This work provides a unique insight into her experiences as the wife of Jacques Parizeau, the former Premier of Quebec, during a tumultuous political era.
The 1995 Referendum and Its Aftermath
On October 30, 1995, Lisette Lapointe and Jacques Parizeau left the Palais des congrès in Montreal after the narrow defeat of the independence referendum. This loss left a bitter impression on Parizeau, who resigned as Premier shortly thereafter. Lapointe recalls efforts to persuade him to delay his resignation and to investigate alleged voting irregularities.
In her memoirs, she reflects on the harsh realities following this defeat. It took an entire year for Parizeau to regain some semblance of happiness, evident through simple acts like singing in the shower. To cope with the emotional strain, the couple purchased a small vineyard in Collioure, France, during the summer of 1995. This retreat became a refuge away from the pressures of politics.
Political Insights and Personal Reflections
Lisette Lapointe offers a unique perspective on the Parizeau government from 1994 to 1996, where she served as a special advisor. She acknowledges the challenges faced as a woman in a powerful role, highlighting the mixed reactions her presence elicited from some political colleagues.
- Lapointe hosted weekly gatherings at their official residence, the Élysette, providing Parizeau with unfiltered feedback from the public.
- She faced the scrutiny of the media, illustrated humorously by an incident involving their cat, Chatou, that gained public attention.
Advancements for Women and Political Engagement
In addition to her political career, Lapointe’s memoirs delve into the evolving role of women in Quebec society over the past fifty years. She recalls the limitations faced by women in the past, such as the lack of maternity leave in the early 1960s and societal stigma surrounding divorce.
After experiencing challenges in the workforce, she transitioned to a communications role with the independentist newspaper Le Jour, eventually meeting Jacques Parizeau, which sparked a long-term personal and professional relationship.
New Political Ventures
Lapointe re-entered politics in 2005, encouraged by the election of André Boisclair as leader of the Parti Québécois (PQ). Elected in 2007, she served in opposition but left the PQ in 2011 due to concerns over party direction. She criticized the party’s increasing electoralism and contested specific policies that did not align with her principles.
From 2013 to 2017, she served as the mayor of Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard, advocating against a controversial high-voltage transmission line proposed by Hydro-Québec, which she deemed one of her toughest battles.
A Call for Independence
In her ongoing involvement with Quebec politics, Lisette Lapointe remains hopeful for the future of Quebec independence. She expresses a belief that the province deserves its sovereignty and acknowledges the close call of the last referendum. Her memoirs not only recount personal experiences but also encourage reflection on the broader socio-political landscape of Quebec.
“De Combats et d’Amour” serves as both a historical account and a testament to the resilience of women in political spheres, marking a significant contribution to Quebec’s collective memory.
