Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Four years ago, Bruno Julliard was pegged as a “world leader of tomorrow”. Now, at the age of 33 (a political infant in the gerontocracy which is France), Mr Julliard has made his first epoch-making decision.
As assistant mayor of Paris with special responsibility for culture, Mr Julliard has decided New Year’s Eve in the capital is boring. Why does Paris not have a fireworks display like London? Why do the crowds which gather on the Champs-Elysées every 31 December have nothing to look at but one another and empty champagne bottles?
Tonight, at 15 minutes to 2015, the Arc de Triomphe will turn into a giant movie screen. Thanks to Mr Julliard, the Paris town hall and the committee which runs the Champs Elysées, there will be music. There will be lights. There will be a video display celebrating Paris through the ages.
Tomorrow, there will be a parade on the avenue with marching bands and circus floats. And this, says Mr Julliard, is only the beginning.
Fireworks in the centre of such a densely-packed city as Paris have been ruled out as dangerous. Next year, however, the Champs-Elysées may be turned into a giant ballroom.
Clearly this is a young man who will go far.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments