Inaccurate Assertions on the Internet Damaged Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Informs Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
She, a legal professional, served as a witness in the trial of ten people facing charges for online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Daily Life
She stated that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the concern that any image may be distorted to advance malicious comments.
"The outcome is that she always has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, no matter what she's doing in everyday routine," she informed the judges.
Defendants and Accusations
Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.
Every defendant is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. Among them, this involved comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
If convicted, they may be sentenced to up to two years in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, a daughter from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".
She explained, "Not a day goes by when a person avoids discussing this to her."
She emphasized the repercussions on her relatives, for example her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently facing these attacks."
Legal Battle Context
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.
The Macrons have pursued a case in America over false statements against a media personality who amplified the allegation.
The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the individual referenced is in fact her sibling.
Accused Individuals' Statements
During the trial, a few individuals disputed the accusations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as ironic.
- A well-known publicist argued that his posts were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the case could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner said he posted posts because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".
Relationship Background
The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity spread to some extent because their union has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than the president, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when serving as a educator at his secondary school.
Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to her divorce.
Auzière finished her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.