Protesters Light Fires, Police Fire Tear Gas in Lyon During Macron Visit

Protesters took to the streets in Lyon, France, on May 8, as President Emmanuel Macron was in the city to commemorate the country’s Victory Day and honor French Resistance fighters from WWII.

According to local news reports, French labor union CGT (Confédération générale du travail, or General Confederation of Labour) called for a rally around Montluc Prison, where Macron planned to visit to pay homage to legendary French Resistance fighter Jean Moulin, but the local government issued a ban on protest action and any large gatherings in the area. CGT appealed the ban but the appeal was dismissed.

Nevertheless, people demonstrated. Videos filmed by Lyon-based photographer @Bismuthback show large crowds of protesters, fiery barricades, police, and tear gas in the city on Monday.

Three people were arrested in Lyon on Monday, reports said. Credit: @Bismuthback via Storyful