This Saturday, Martinique experienced its biggest demonstration since the great strikes of 2009. Between 5,000 and 15,000 people marched to denounce the scandal of chlordecone, a pesticide that contaminated the island before its ban in 1993. Europe 1 is gone at the heart of the gathering.
REPORT
"Martinique, get up!"
A song of revolt in Creole is sung by 5,000 to 15,000 people who gathered on Saturday to denounce the chlordecone scandal.
"I hope there will be an echo in France," says Mickaël, who came with his friends.
Banned in metropolitan France in 1990, the pesticide remained authorized in Martinique until 1993. The court which was seized could finally pronounce a dismissal for prescription.
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With slogans, flags and percussion, the demonstrators want Paris to hear them and judge those responsible for this poisoning, the effects of which will last 600 years.
"We're going to show people that we're not just there for the carnival," exclaims Nathalie, who came with her 4-year-old son.
"For a cause like this, people have come together. I get goosebumps when I see my people come to protest. We are disappointed, traumatized, sick and we cannot be heard."
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90% of the West Indian population has chlordecone in their blood.
It has the highest rate of prostate cancer in the world.
In the procession, unions, associations and political parties were present, as well as the diocese which distributes prayers for justice.
Everywhere, the same hope: that the criminals will be judged, condemned and that the damage is repaired.
In addition to its effects on the health of residents, the use of this pesticide in banana plantations has already impacted the agriculture, fishing, water and food of the West Indies.