Mazan rape trial: Dominique Pelicot found guilty of aggravated rape of his ex-wife

This verdict was eagerly awaited. Since its opening on September 2 in Avignon, the Mazan rape trial has caused a shock wave that has spread throughout the world. Gisèle Pelicot refused to let the hearing take place behind closed doors. 51 men aged 27 to 74, from all social backgrounds, came to sexually assault Gisèle Pelicot, previously sedated by her then husband, Dominique, at their home in Mazan (Vaucluse).

This decision, in an Avignon courthouse under heavy police protection, was closely scrutinized, in France and abroad, as this trial has caused a shock wave since its opening on September 2. The case has become emblematic of issues surrounding gender-based and sexual violence, chemical submission, consent and more broadly male-female relationships.

“Thank you Gisèle”

“Thank you Gisèle”: the banner which flew Thursday morning in front of the Avignon courthouse, before the verdict of the historic Mazan rape trial, summarizes the message of gratitude from women and men towards the one who wanted “that the shame changes sides.”

Gisèle Pelicot, who has become a feminist icon, arrived shortly after 9:00 a.m., smiling, to cheers, to hear the verdict against the 51 men accused, most of them of aggravated rape against her, including her husband Dominique.

“Gisèle, Gisèle,” chanted the small crowd who came to the entrance to the court, applauding her.

Her children David, Caroline and Florian had passed by half an hour before, entering the courtroom alongside a group of men accused of raping their mother. The latter appear free but risk years of imprisonment. “We came with our things for the prison,” said one of them, pointing to the sports bags placed on the ground.

Near the courthouse, as since the start of this trial, almost four months ago, feminist messages are displayed on the walls and banners: “Justice for all”, “Shame has changed sides, and justice?”, and the biggest, “Thank you”.