Misleading Assertions on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Tells Judges
The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying targeting Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Everyday Activities
Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about how she looks, from her fashion choices to her posture, because of the concern that every photograph may be misused to support hateful attacks.
"The consequence is that she systematically must be cautious to her outfits, how she holds herself, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," she informed the judges.
Defendants and Allegations
Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for online harassment. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were better known.
Each one is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's identity. Among them, this involved linking the disparity in years with her husband to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "worsening of her well-being" and a "worsening of her quality of life".
She said, "Not a day passes when an individual fails to mention these claims to her."
She pointed out the impact on the family, including the kids learning about false assertions like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".
"She has no idea how to stop it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is continually facing this abuse."
Court Case History
The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was male.
They have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements involving a political commentator who spread the claim.
The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and identifies that the person cited is really her older brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, some of the accused denied the allegations.
- One defendant, serving as a local official, stated he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
- Another defendant claimed that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
- A third defendant testified he disseminated posts because he felt it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim about the first lady's sex circulated partly because their marriage has often been a point of interest in digital spaces.
The first lady, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at his secondary school.
Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they married in that year, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.
She concluded her statement by expressing that the false claims have produced a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.