Actress Ashley Judd expressed her disappointment and frustration after Harvey Weinstein’s 2020 rape conviction was overturned in New York, referring to it as a form of “institutional betrayal.” Judd, who was one of the women to come forward with allegations against Weinstein, spoke out during a press conference, highlighting the pervasive issue of male entitlement to women’s bodies.
Recalling her personal experience with Weinstein’s inappropriate behavior during the filming of “Kiss the Girls” in 1997, Judd emphasized the importance of survivors sharing their stories to bring about change and inspire others to take action. She criticized the decision to overturn Weinstein’s conviction as a betrayal of survivors of male sexual violence by the justice system.
The New York court’s decision to order a new trial for Weinstein was based on the judge’s incorrect handling of the case, including allowing testimony from alleged victims. Despite his previous conviction for criminal sex acts and rape, the case involving Judd was not part of this particular trial.
Judd emphasized the need for women to be able to contribute without fear of violence or oppression, calling for a society where voices are not silenced. Weinstein has also been sentenced to additional jail time in Los Angeles for rape and sexual assault charges.
