Gisèle Pélicot's Daughter Speaks Out in Upcoming Documentary
Caroline Darian, daughter of Gisèle Pélicot, is at the forefront of a significant documentary addressing the harrowing issue of chemical submission and the ongoing Mazan rape trial. As the trial nears its conclusion, Darian has taken the bold step of sharing her story, convinced that she too was a victim of drugging and rape by her father. The documentary, titled "Chemical Submission, Let Shame Change Fields," is produced by CAPA and directed by Linda Bendali, with a release planned for the coming months on France 2. This film aims to amplify the voices of victims, including others affected by similar crimes, shedding light on a largely underestimated phenomenon in France.
The Impact of Chemical Submission
Chemical submission, a term referring to the drugging of victims to facilitate sexual assault, is a pressing issue, with women, children, and the elderly making up 90% of its victims. In 2022, France recorded nearly 2,000 calls and complaints related to this crime, a significant increase from 700 in 2021. Darian, who also founded the M'endors pas movement and authored the book "And I Stopped Calling You Dad," is dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for victims. She emphasizes the importance of being heard and supported, stating, "We can no longer ignore violence against women."
A Call for Change
During a recent charity event in Paris, Darian received widespread applause for her passionate plea for change in societal attitudes towards violence against women. As the Mazan trial continues to attract international attention, the prosecution has expressed hope that the verdict will serve as a beacon of hope for victims of sexual violence. The documentary will be part of an exceptional debate evening aimed at addressing major societal issues, reinforcing the need for ongoing dialogue and action against gender-based violence.
