Gisèle Pelicot, a French woman who became a global symbol of courage and unwavering belief in justice, shared her powerful story in her first television interview after being raped unconscious by dozens of men. In this interview, she urged other victims to never feel ashamed of their experiences, reinforcing her belief that shame must shift from the victims to the perpetrators. Her personal battle for dignity culminated in a historic trial, where records and notes from her former husband, Dominique, who had drugged her to erase her memory, were key to the prosecution's case against the numerous men involved.

During the trial, which took place in the fall of 2024, Gisèle removed her sunglasses to face the accused, while the men attempted to hide behind their lawyers, stacks of papers, and hoods. Her bravery during this highly publicized trial captivated not only France but the entire world, as it showcased the deep societal issues surrounding sexual violence and the struggle for justice. Gisèle's courage to renounce her right to anonymity underscored her commitment to fighting for all victims and highlighted the necessity of societal change in attitudes toward victims of sexual assault.

The repercussions of Gisèle's testimony and the trial extend beyond her individual case, contributing to an ongoing dialogue about victim stigmatization and the accountability of perpetrators. By speaking out, Gisèle Pelicot not only championed her own dignity but also advocated for a broader movement urging victims to reclaim their voices and stand against injustice, emphasizing that they should never be ashamed of their experiences. This interview marks a vital moment in the ongoing struggle for justice and societal change regarding sexual violence.