Standing Together in Support of Gisèle Pelicot: A Statement on Her Courage and Resilience

Today, we stand in solidarity with Gisèle Pelicot and her family as they navigate the aftermath of a challenging ordeal. Gisèle’s courage in seeking justice, despite unimaginable hardship, is a testament to her resilience. We are deeply grateful for her bravery and the strength she has shown throughout this journey. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of all survivors of gender-based violence demonstrate. We fully support Giselle, and can only imagine the costs to her.  

At Standing Together, we recognise that societal attitudes toward survivors can often create additional barriers to justice and healing. It is critical to challenge these harmful norms and place accountability where it belongs: on those who perpetrate violence. Survivors like Gisèle, who share their stories, inspire us to rethink our collective response to violence against women and girls. It enthuses our push for meaningful change. 

We emphasise the urgent need for education to end violence against women and girls. This work must begin now - dismantling patriarchal norms and addressing harmful attitudes that perpetuate the objectification and commodification of women and girls. Teaching children, especially boys, the values of respect, equality, and dignity is crucial. Men must also be active allies –being clear that violence in any form is unacceptable and committing to change as partners in eradicating gender-based violence. 

To achieve lasting change, we must advocate for survivor-centred policies and legal reforms. Trauma-informed justice systems, comprehensive survivor support services, and community-driven education campaigns are essential components of a coordinated community response that fosters a safer, more equitable society. Frameworks like the Istanbul Convention offer critical pathways to prevention, protection, and accountability. 

We also call for investment in accessible support systems, including counselling, legal aid, and survivor-led peer networks, alongside training programs that empower allies to intervene safely and support survivors effectively. These actions represent the foundation of a societal shift that values women and girls, respects their voices, recognises their potential and ensures their safety. 

At Standing Together, our commitment to survivors like Gisèle is unwavering. We continue to advocate for justice, dignity, and equality, standing with all who bravely confront the status quo to create a world free from violence. 

We Stand Together with Gisèle and  all survivors. Together, we will change the narrative. 

Cherryl Henry-Leach, CEO of Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse, shares,

"We are deeply moved by Gisèle’s extraordinary courage and resilience. Her bravery reminds us why we must continue to challenge the systems and attitudes that perpetuate violence against women. Standing Together remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting survivors and fostering a society where respect, equality, and safety are non-negotiable for everyone."