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Survivor's Message: 'Never Have Shame'
12 Feb
Summary
- She waived anonymity to empower other sexual abuse survivors.
- Her ex-husband and 50 others were jailed for rape convictions.
- She found love again and embraced happiness after trauma.
Gisele Pelicot, 73, has delivered a powerful message of hope to sexual abuse survivors in her first television interview since her ex-husband and 51 other men were imprisoned for rape. She chose to waive her anonymity to fight for other victims, proving they too could overcome.
Ms. Pelicot's ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, received a 20-year sentence, while approximately 50 other men received sentences ranging from three to 15 years for their crimes. She bravely endured the trial, finding strength in her new relationship and her age.
Her upcoming memoir, "Et la joie de vivre," details the shocking discovery of her husband's abuse, which involved drugging and filming assaults. Ms. Pelicot emphasizes that her recovery and newfound happiness, including a new love, are possible.
She advocates for open trials, believing they protect victims and prevent abusers from escaping scrutiny. Ms. Pelicot's resilience and decision to speak out have spurred a national conversation about sexual violence.
