On Saturday, citizens from various backgrounds came together in Paris and other cities across France to show their support for Gisèle Pélicot, as well as to protest against the rampant issue of sexual violence highlighted by her traumatic experience. This solidarity was spurred by the ongoing trial of her ex-husband, along with numerous other men accused of raping her while she was incapacitated through drugs.

The demonstrations, which took place outside the criminal court in Paris and in cities like Lyon, emphasized the significant impact of Pélicot’s bravery in revealing her harrowing ordeal. Despite the shocking nature and magnitude of the abuse she endured over many years, her voice has galvanized others in France and beyond to stand up against such brutality.

Since the trial began on September 2, where Pélicot confronted 51 of her alleged assailants, she has been commended for her poise and for her choice to keep the court proceedings public, contrary to initial attempts to hold them in secrecy.

“She has made this an emblematic trial,” noted Elsa Labouret, a participant in the Paris rally and a representative of the women’s rights group “Osez le féminisme!” (Dare to be feminist!). “Victims have the right to remain anonymous; it is not an obligation. Nevertheless, her decision is pivotal because it brings attention to the deplorable violence some men perpetrate.”

Protesters expressed their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as leniency from the French judicial system regarding sexual violence. Many voiced their dread regarding potential assaults that women face on a daily basis. Their signs carried powerful messages such as: “Shame must change sides,” “Stop the denial,” “Not your punching ball,” and “We are all Gisele. Are you all Dominique???”

Dominique Pélicot, during the trial, confessed to drugging his wife for nearly ten years and allowing numerous men to assault her while she was unconscious. He also admitted to having raped her himself and acknowledged that the others on trial were fully aware of their actions. After his arrest, Gisèle divorced him, and the trial is projected to continue until December.

The accused range in age from 26 to 74, with many denying the charges, claiming they were misled by Dominique or believed that Gisèle consented to the acts.

Paris demonstrator Khalil Ndiaye, a student, articulated a chilling reality: “You can never know who might be a rapist or a monster. It could be anyone, even someone you encounter frequently.” He expressed disgust at the possibility that those around him could engage in such heinous acts.

Ndiaye regards Gisèle Pélicot as a powerful symbol of resilience. “She chose to fight instead of yielding to her pain,” he declared. “We are all gathered here today because her struggle inspires us to stand up and confront these injustices.”