Statement by Dawn Hawkins, Executive Director of NCOSE
Washington, DC – Producer Harvey Weinstein has recently been confronted with allegations of sexually harassing women in Hollywood. Last night, Terry Crews contributed to the dialogue surrounding sexual assault in the entertainment industry tweeting about how he was groped by a separate prominent figure in Hollywood.
The National Center on Sexual Exploitation applauds the bravery of all who have spoken out, and calls for greater awareness that sexual exploitation impacts both men and women.
“The sexual harassment or abuse of any person—male or female—is systemic in Hollywood culture, from rampant allegations against those in power to sexually violent content they create,” said Dawn Hawkins, Executive Director of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation. “We commend every female who has spoken out against abuses they experienced from Harvey Weinstein, along with Terry Crews for his public comments recognizing a sexually aggressive act that was committed against him.”
“All sexual harassment or abuse is a crime that thrives on silence.”
“Terry Crews’ bravery to acknowledge his experiences is particularly important because research shows that male reports of sexual abuse are met with more distrust than female’ reports, and societal attitudes often discredit males. By speaking out, Terry Crews helps give voice to countless boys and men across the country who have yet to disclose their own experiences. It’s time to bring all sexual exploitation out of the shadows.”
Learn more about the exploitation of males here: endsexualexploitation.org/boysandmen.
