Gisèle Pelicot, the French woman at the center of a high-profile rape case involving her ex-husband and 50 other men, has emerged as a symbol of resilience and determination to confront and change societal attitudes toward rape. At 72, Pelicot shared her harrowing experience in court, stating, “I am a woman who is totally destroyed, and I don’t know how I’m going to rebuild myself.” She described how her then-husband, Dominique Pelicot, 71, drugged her without her knowledge and allowed men to assault her over a span of nine years.

The public trial, which has drawn international attention, has spurred a movement in France advocating for stronger rape laws and better handling of such cases by the justice system. Supporters have rallied outside the court in Avignon, many arriving before dawn to stand in solidarity with Pelicot, who has been greeted with cheers and applause as she arrives and departs each day.

When asked how she coped with the nearly two months of testimony from numerous men accused of raping her while she was incapacitated, Pelicot emphasized the need for societal change rather than drawing on notions of bravery. “It’s not bravery; it’s will and determination to change society,” she stated, reaffirming her commitment to lift the shame surrounding rape victims. “I want all women victims of rape to feel empowered, to say: ‘Mrs. Pelicot did it, we can do it too.’”

Pelicot also highlighted the misconception of what a rapist looks like, asserting that they can be found among family and friends rather than just strangers in dark places. She reflected on the cultural misconceptions surrounding rape, urging society to educate itself on the definition and implications of such acts.

In a powerful moment directed toward her ex-husband, she voiced her disbelief at his betrayal, saying, “How could you have brought these strangers into my bedroom?” Despite the trauma she endured, Pelicot expressed her hope that her case would challenge and change prevailing attitudes about consent and assault.

Dominique Pelicot has confessed to the charges against him, admitting to drugging his wife at meals and facilitating the assaults through a chatroom titled “without her knowledge.” He stated, “I am a rapist, like the others in this room,” as he acknowledged the complicity of the men involved.

Gisèle recounted instances where she was unaware of being drugged, reflecting on moments that now appear sinister in hindsight. She shared details of routine interactions with her husband—moments she believed were expressions of love and care that, unbeknownst to her, were harrowing manipulations.

The trial has seen testimonies from many of the accused, most of whom deny the charges, some arguing that they believed Pelicot was merely pretending to be asleep. With 50 men identified in connection with the case, charges include rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault, with some facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The trial is expected to continue until December 20th, as Pelicot’s fight for justice against this appalling abuse unfolds.