Gisele Pelicot donned a scarf that acted as a “hug” from the other side of the world when she entered a French courtroom to hear the hundreds of men who had sexually assaulted her testify about their crimes.
After claiming her right to anonymity as a victim of sexual assault and calling for “shame change sides”—from the victim to the rapist—the 72-year-old has become a global feminist symbol.
The scarf was a gift from the Older Women’s Network in Australia, whose members wished to show their appreciation and support for Ms. Pelicot after being moved by her courage.
“A scarf is similar to an embrace… “It hangs near your heart and drapes around your neck,” said Beverly Baker, 74, head of the advocacy group.
