Gisèle Pelicot Honored with France's Legion of Honour for Bravery in Mass-Rape Case

In a landmark moment for victims of sexual violence, Gisèle Pelicot has been recognized for her bravery and resolve in speaking out against her abuser.

Gisèle Pelicot, a courageous 72-year-old French woman, has been awarded the prestigious Knight of the Legion of Honour, France’s highest distinction, following her public testimony in a mass-rape trial that garnered widespread international attention. This announcement was made just ahead of France’s annual Bastille Day celebrations.

Pelicot made the brave decision to waive her right to anonymity during her trial against her husband, who not only drugged and raped her but also facilitated the abuse with nearly 50 other men over an extended period of nearly ten years. She attended nearly every session of the trial, which concluded last December, resulting in a 20-year prison sentence for her husband, Dominique Pelicot, age 72, for proven aggravated rape.

Pelicot's poignant remarks during the trial have resonated deeply within the survivor community; she has called for women who have experienced similar horrors to find their voice and express their struggle by proclaiming, “Madame Pelicot did it, I can too.” In a powerful message, she has sought to shift the stigma associated with victimhood, emphasizing that shame belongs to the rapist, not the victim.

French President Emmanuel Macron publicly acknowledged Pelicot’s immense courage and influence, stating that her dignity and tenacity continue to inspire people both in France and across the globe. Her story is set to gain even more attention with the upcoming release of a memoir, chronicling her harrowing experiences and journey toward healing, expected to hit bookstores early next year.