The outpouring of support for survivors of sexual assault continues to grow amid the news of Bill Cosby’s release from prison on Wednesday (June 30), and public support of the comedian. Cosby’s longtime co-star Phylicia Rashad tweeted her support of his release in a tweet that fueled backlash.
Rashad’s new employer, Howard University, admitted in a statement that the actresses’ initial comments were insensitive to survivors, though it was another TV mom who called Rashad out.
“Phylicia what are you thinking!!!” Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Janet Hubert wrote in a tweet. “I don’t know you but to say this was terribly wrong,” Hubert, who played the original “Aunt Viv” on the sitcom, continued. “EVERYONE knew what he was doing back then. How could you NOT! Get your umbrella sista her comes the sh*t shower. I am outraged that he has been released. Yes he is an old a** guilty man!”
“I would have said he’s old he’s out and I’m happy for him,” Hubert added, “but he still...guilty.” “I know 5 women who have not come forward. Enough Ya’ll we know better. Powerful men do wrong things, black or white…”
The Me Too organization released a statement in response to Cosby’s release and the widespread support the 82-year-old is receiving.
“Today’s decision to overturn the conviction against Bill Cosby is not only triggering for those of us who have experienced sexual violence and its emotional and physical consequence; it is a miscarriage of what little accountability survivors are afford by our legal system,” the organization wrote in a tweet.
“In this moment we are speaking directly to survivors: We honor you and your complicated journey towards healing as you define justice and accountability in the face of a system that fails us at every turn,” the organization added. Times Up also tweeted in response to Cosby's release.
Reading about Black trauma can have an impact on your mental health. If you or someone you know need immediate mental health help, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor. These additional resources are also available:
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
The National Alliance on Mental Illness 1-800-950-6264
The Association of Black Psychologists 1-301-449-3082
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America 1-240-485-1001
For more mental health resources, click HERE. For resources on sexual violence, click HERE.
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