Hundreds of people gathered in the southern French city of Avignon on Saturday ahead of the verdict in a trial in which dozens of men are accused of raping Gisele Pelicot while her husband drugged her and rendered her unconscious. The court is expected to announce its verdicts in the trial of 51 defendants by December 20, the AP reports. Last month, prosecutors asked the panel of judges to impose the maximum possible sentence for aggravated rape – 20 years – for the victim’s now ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, 72.

Gisèle Pelicot, 71, has become an icon for those fighting against sexual violence. She testified during the trial about the harrowing events that attracted widespread public attention. Outside the courthouse, demonstrators held placards with messages such as “Victims, we believe you, rapists, we see you” and “Shame change sides.” A large banner on the wall read: “Rape has no nationality.” Hanging elsewhere Activists put notes on a fence with the inscription “Gentle words for Gisele”. Activist Marine Thebaud, a member of the Family Planning Association, said: “We are here to show support to all victims of patriarchal violence.”

Alain Souberan said he joined the gathering because his partner “is a convinced feminist who sings in the feminist choir of Avignon,” adding: “I really support this movement. I think men also have their place as supporters.” The trial, which began in September, attracted attention beyond France as Pelicot’s courage in facing her accusers turned her into a symbol for victims of sexual violence.

(More stories from Gisele Pelicot.)