Gisèle Pelicot Testifies in Landmark Rape Trial

Gisèle Pelicot, a 72-year-old victim of mass rape, testified at a trial in Avignon, France, where her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, is accused of drugging her and inviting dozens of men to rape her over nearly a decade. Gisèle emphasized her determination to raise awareness and support for other victims, stating, 'I’ve decided not to be ashamed, I’ve done nothing wrong.' Throughout the trial, many defendants have claimed they were unaware she was unconscious, while only a few have admitted to the rapes. Gisèle insisted on a public trial to challenge societal norms around sexual violence, asserting that the perpetrators, not victims, should bear the shame. Protests supporting her have occurred across France, highlighting her role as a symbol of the fight against sexual violence. She expressed a desire for victims to feel empowered, saying, 'If Ms. Pelicot did it, so can we.'