NYWIFT’s Statement on the Harvey Weinstein Verdict: You are not alone.

Dear NYWIFT Members and Community:

A Centers for Disease Control national survey found that over 18% of women reported having been raped in their lifetime – or approximately 785,000 NYC women. Although about 50,000 women are raped annually in New York City, only about 1,500 of those rapes are reported to the police. Yesterday’s ruling in the Harvey Weinstein New York trial has proven that women’s voices are not only are being heard but deserve to be recognized for the courage it takes to speak up. The women that testified in the trial not only had the courage to confront their trauma but have the resilience to finally move forward. While there are some wounds that undoubtedly will never heal, we hope this validation will provide some closure for all of those affected and encourage others experiencing harassment and abuse to speak out. NYWIFT commends all of those women that came forward regardless of their own personal or professional detriment – as well as all who rallied around them to protect and support.

We wanted to take this opportunity to assure you that you are not alone. The NYWIFT community is united and here to help. Last year we announced our partnership with Women in Film Los Angeles to expand their Women in Film Help Line, an integrated program offering resources and support—including referrals to pro bono legal services, sliding-scale therapy, and free support groups—for anyone who has experienced sexual harassment or misconduct while working in the entertainment industry. Trauma-informed staff responders take calls from across the country. Pro bono attorneys are available for callers in California, New York, and Georgia. Local mental health and emotional support services currently serve the cities of Los Angeles, New York City, and Atlanta.

You can reach the Help Line at (855) WIF-LINE or (855) 943-5463 from 10 AM – 11 PM EST Monday, Wednesday, Friday and 1 PM – 8 PM EST Tuesday and Thursday.

Please don’t be afraid to call – no question or concern is too big or too small. The call is confidential.

You can learn more about this and other resources at www.nywift.org/sexual-harassment-resources.

The only way forward is to be united. Sisterhood is powerful.

 

Sincerely,

Cynthia Lopez

Executive Director

New York Women in Film & Television

 

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