Sexual crimes against women is a huge topic that needs to be talked about! Unfortunately, they aren't topics people usually want to think about, least of all talk about. It's seen as something to hide under the rug in public and that creates an environment where victims aren't comfortable stepping forward and become unable to heal from their ordeal. It’s ridiculous that society's apprehension over facing this dilemma has not only led to victims unable to speak up, but has caused a general cone of silence on just how many women suffer. That's why Kesha and her lawsuit against her producer who raped and sexually abused her for years is so important. Though the verdict wasn’t exactly what we wanted, as she still has to work for her abuser, the case wakes the public up and opens a dialogue for better treatment for victims. By stepping forward to tell her story and stand up for herself, Kesha has helped a lot of women find their own voice and heal. The snowball effect of Kesha's case has put the pop star at the forefront of the fight against sexual abuse that other female stars have taken part of as well. Here is a top five list of female stars who have had the courage to go public with their own horrific experiences with sexual assault and abuse to impact others.
1. Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union is known for her work as an actor, seen in movies like "Bring It On" and "Think Like a Man" and television shows like "Being MaryJane." What you might not have known was that she was raped at the age of 19 at the shoe store she worked at. She later became an activist, speaking all around the country with other women about her ordeal and lobbying for legislation funding rape crisis centers.
2. Madonna
A singer turned household name and pop icon, Madonna has reported how she was raped around the age of 20, when she had just moved to Manhattan. The ordeal was used to fuel her music and helped her become one of the most popular singers in the U.S.
3. Lady Gaga
Known for her out-there attitude, Lady Gaga was raped at the age of 19 by a former producer. Opening up about it in 2014, the star has become an advocate for victims of sexual abuse and has made a musical tribute called “Til It Happens to You" for the documentary "The Hunting Ground" which talks about rape on college campuses.
4.Tori Amos
Famous for her alternative sound, singer Tori Amos was raped by a male patron of a club that had asked for a ride home. On her album "Little Earthquakes," Amos wrote a song “Me and a gun”, a heartfelt song that chronicled her ordeal. She eventually went on to co-found an organization that helps raise rape awareness called RAINN.
5. Julianne Hough
Known for appearing on "Dancing with the Stars" and her starring role in "The Rock of Ages" and "Grease Live," Julianne Hough spoke out about being molested when she was ten years old during her time in Dance Academy. Among a number of philanthropic endeavors, she hosts Kind Camp, a campaign that helps young girls find confidence in themselves and build healthy relationships.
