This paper contextualizes sexual abuse in Hollywood and beyond from a legal perspective. Prominent female figures in the film industry, music industry, and even the Olympics, have frequently suffered ridicule and shame in response to their genuine accusations of sexual abuse. Influential, powerful, and supervisory male figures in these industries utilize these tactics to intimidate and silence accusers while continuing their reprehensible and unlawful conduct. Harvey Weinstein, Larry Nassar, Kevin Spacey, Asia Argento, and Robert “R.” Kelly notably among many others, have now become infamous for their reprehensible acts against subordinates. Focusing on the specifics of these well-documented examples, a consistent and identifiable pattern of predatory behavior reliant on power and time emerges leaving multiple victims in its wake. #MeToo, a movement dedicated to providing a platform for survivors to tell their stories and remind other victims of sexual abuse that they are not alone, has now given these victims a voice in the courts of both public opinion and law. Resulting from #MeToo, sexual abuse victims everywhere have grown more comfortable and empowered to share their stories and obtain justice without fear of retaliation from their abusers. The study concludes by analyzing resultant legal effects of #MeToo on victims and their accusers.
About the presenterEmma N. Carey
Hello! My name is Emma Carey. I am an undergraduate Legal Studies student at St. John’s University in Queens, New York. Originally from Wantagh, Long Island, I have found my passion for the legal field through various internship opportunities and guidance from local elected officials, many of whom are attorneys. I look forward to attending MAPACA and learning more about the law as it relates to pop culture.