On Monday 18 September, the Brussels municipal council will vote to rename the central median of the Handelskaai to “Chantal Akermandreef”. With this, the City of Brussels pays tribute to the Belgian film director, known for films such as “Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce, 1080 Brussels”. This film was awarded best film of all time in 2022. This initiative is part of the City of Brussels' plan to include more names of prominent women and LGBTQIA+(*) in public spaces.
Anaïs Maes, (one.brussels-Vooruit) Alderman responsible for Urban Planning and Public Space: Contrary to what the title of the famous film suggests, the Handelskaai is located within the territory of the City of Brussels. The opportunity was too good to miss to make this reference and rename the avenue. In this way, we pay tribute to one of the most talented filmmakers of all time. Do not forget that, of the streets named after famous people, only 15% are named after women, compared to 85% named after men. A sad fact, but not insurmountable. Public space must reflect the history we all share, and women are too often forgotten. By naming new streets after women, we aim to portray history as inclusively as possible.
The decision to rename the avenue was made in consultation with Chantal Akerman's sister and the Chantal Akerman Foundation.
The inauguration of the “Chantal Akermanlaan” will take place on 29 September at 12:30 PM, along with the unveiling of a mural created in honour of Chantal Akerman in collaboration with the Brussels' Alderperson for Culture. A press invitation will follow shortly.
Chantal Akerman will be the 11th name to be added during this legislature. Here is the list of names of notable women or LGBTQIA+ individuals that have already been assigned since the beginning of this legislature:
- Hélène Dutrieu Street
- Eunice Nancy Osayandestraat
- Suzan Daniel Bridge
- Eliane Vogel-Polsky Street
- Loredana Marchi Passerelle
- Fatima Mernissi Pedestrian Bridge
- Anna Bochdreef
- Willy de Bruyn Street
- Andrée de Jongh Street
- Yvonne Nèvejean Street