International

France Shows Solidarity with Giselle Pelicot & Rape Victims

Published

3 months ago

Sep 14, 2024.

Across France, hundreds of people, predominantly women, has united in solidarity with Gisele Pelicot, a 72-year-old woman whose harrowing story has captivated the nation.

Pelicot’s husband, Dominique, is on trial for allegedly drugging and raping her, as well as recruiting numerous strangers to perpetrate the abuse over nearly a decade.

The case has sparked widespread outrage and admiration for Pelicot’s courage.

Feminist associations organized rallies in over 30 cities, including Marseille and Paris, where protesters held banners reading “Support to Giselle,” “Shame Must Change Camp,” and “Victims We Believe You.”

Pelicot’s decision to opt for a public trial has made her a symbol of resilience and a powerful voice against sexual violence.

Fatima Benomar, a feminist activist, expressed gratitude to Pelicot for her bravery, stating, “We thank her a thousand times for her enormous courage.”

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The gatherings aimed to pay tribute to all rape victims and support Pelicot in her fight for justice.

The trial, which began earlier this month, has revealed shocking details of the abuse, including Dominique Pelicot’s alleged use of a website to offer sex with his wife and film the abuse.

Fifty other men are also on trial for their involvement.

While some defendants have admitted guilt, others claim they thought Pelicot’s wife was pretending to be asleep.

As the trial continues, Pelicot’s story has ignited a national conversation about sexual abuse, drug-induced blackouts, and the importance of believing survivors.