False Allegations on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims online—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the court case of ten people allegedly involved in digital bullying against Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Personal Routine
Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, as a result of the fear that every photograph could be manipulated to fuel hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she testified.
Those on Trial and Accusations
Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are in court for digital abuse. Several had modest digital reach, while the rest were more visible.
All is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this included equating the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.
If convicted, they could receive as much as 24 months in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have caused a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her quality of life".
She testified, "Not a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing these claims to her."
Auzière highlighted the impact on the family, such as the kids learning about false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She does not know what to do about it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is permanently facing this abuse."
Legal Battle Background
The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle against the false claim that the first lady was a man.
The couple have initiated a US lawsuit for defamation against a media personality who promoted the theory.
The legal filing states that the accusation is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is actually her brother.
Defendants' Responses
During the trial, a few individuals denied the charges.
- One defendant, now a deputy mayor, stated he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
- Another defendant stated that his posts were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- Another individual said he shared posts because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".
Relationship Background
The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity circulated to some extent because their marriage has frequently been a point of interest on the internet.
Brigitte Macron, who is 24 years older than the president, first met him when working as a instructor at his secondary school.
The connection between them developed through drama activities, and they married in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière wrapped up her statement by saying that the inaccurate allegations have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.