A Hymn to Life tells Gisele Pelicot's stunning story in
her words, offering solace and hope for shame to
change sides in conversations around sexual
violence

In 2024, Gisele Pelicot inspired millions of people
with her astonishing courage and dignity as she
chose to waive her right to anonymity in her legal
fight against her husband and the fifty men accused
of her sexual assault. By the time Dominique Pelicot
and the dozens of men accused were found guilty,
Gisele had become a global icon in the campaign
against sexual violence, galyanizing a movement
hat triggered protests and demonstrations around
the world in her support. "I hear lots of women, and
men, who say you're very brave," she addressed
the courtroom. "| say it's not bravery, it's will and
determination to change society.

Gisele Pelicot's call for shame to change sides in
cases of sexual abuse, and the solidarity she has
shown survivors, have generated an extraordinary
public response and moved both women and men
all over the world. On December 19, 2024, when
Pelicot walked down the steps of the Avignon
courthouse at the culmination of the biggest rape
trial in French history, she spoke to a cheering
crowd of hundreds of people: "When I opened the
doors to this trial on 2 September, I wanted society
to be able to take part in this debate. I have never
regretted that decision," she continued. "| have
confidence in our ability to collectively grasp a
future in which everyone, women and men alike,
can live in harmony, with mutual respect and
understanding.