From the Aix trial in 1978 to the Mazan rape trials, “shame has shifted sides.”

Agnès Fichot’s Determined Path to Gisèle Halimi

Agnès Fichot vividly recalls the day in 1977 when she, just three years out of university, picked up the phone to call Gisèle Halimi’s law firm, the most famous lawyer in France. Fichot admired Halimi’s courage, talent, and audacity in sparking societal debates to drive cultural and legal change, particularly regarding women’s rights.

An Unexpected Encounter with Gisèle Halimi

Despite aiming to work specifically with Halimi, Agnès Fichot initially struggled to secure a meeting. However, after persistent follow-ups, the young lawyer finally found herself sitting face-to-face with the esteemed advocate in her Paris office. Halimi’s powerful anecdotes and shared values resonated deeply with Fichot, leading to an immediate job offer.

A Bond Formed Through Shared Ideals

Halimi and Fichot discovered common ground in their family backgrounds and shared desire for gender equality. Halimi’s humble beginnings in Tunisia contrasted with Fichot’s suburban upbringing, yet their mutual passion for justice and advocacy solidified their professional alliance.

The Start of a Transformative Journey

With Fichot’s eager commitment to delve into key women’s rights issues, Halimi entrusted her with a groundbreaking rape trial in Aix-en-Provence in May 1978, poised to become a milestone in the fight against sexual violence.

This captivating tale of mentorship, dedication, and shared values illustrates the profound impact of one woman’s determination to work alongside her feminist icon.