Monday, August 27, 2018

Michel Bouyer; Trade-Unionist and Weightlifter


Michel Bouyer is an iconic trade unionist and, due to his always present Basque beret and Gallic moustache, a wellknown and recognizable character.
Bouyer contracted polio at the young age of 13 months and at 18, was offered a place in a facility for disabled people. He refused and a year after, began his career in the steel industry (and trade unions).
Interestingly, his achievements as a weightlifter are not as much on the foreground. In his "second life" he was a great sportsman. With an impressive track record: seven times champion of France; two-time European champion; once vice-world champion. He finished his career at the Seoul Paralympic Games in 1988.
He portrays himself as a little man who had, in part, missed his studies. But who is able, today, to address any politician. "Unionism allowed me to exist. It's a great school. The CFDT was my second family.

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