Gisèle Pelicot, a 72-year-old French woman whose ex-husband is on trial for drugging and raping her while inviting other men to do the same, took the stand in court in Avignon on Wednesday. Pelicot, who requested an open trial, shared her devastating testimony, expressing her hope that her story will encourage other women to come forward. “It’s not for us to have shame—it’s for them,” she said, addressing victims of sexual violence.

Her ex-husband, Dominique, admitted to secretly drugging her over a decade, allowing dozens of men to rape her while she was unconscious, actions he filmed. Many of the defendants deny the charges, claiming they did not realize she was unconscious. Pelicot described her disbelief at the betrayal, saying she never suspected her “caring” husband could commit such acts.

Pelicot has become a symbol of resilience and determination in France, with feminist marches held in her support across the country. She stated that her decision to waive anonymity was motivated by her desire to prevent such atrocities from happening again. The trial, which began in September, is expected to conclude in December.

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