If you have not seen the six-episode series called "Surviving R. Kelly," you may be missing out on one of the most talked about and controversial subjects currently.
Singer and star R. Kelly is well known for his hit singles "Ignition" and "I Believe I Can Fly," but that's not why people have been talking about him most recently. Even though there have been accusations for years now that involve countless people, stories related to abuse, manipulation, predatory behavior and more have come to light in the Lifetime series revolving around Kelly (who has yet to be reprimanded in any way for his actions) which is called "Surviving R. Kelly."
Several victims, friends, family members and celebrities came out of the woodwork to discuss R. Kelly and his inappropriate behavior through this show. These stories helped accumulate evidence and proof against Kelly and ultimately further expose him to the general public. However, many artists apparently rejected the offer to appear on the series and decided to remain silent. While some of those who decided to remain uninvolved were generally not surprising, others came as more of a shock to those who have been following this controversy.
The most shocking celebrity who has decided to remain silent, in my opinion, is Lady Gaga.
Gaga is known for being an activist. She is someone who supports several movements against behavior Kelly has been accused of such as #MeToo and Time's Up. After collaborating with R. Kelly on a track called "Do What You Want," many were shocked to hear that Gaga had nothing to say about these accusations or Kelly in general. Some feel as though she is now feeling the pressure to speak up, but Gaga has yet to explain why she remained silent or reveal her standpoint on the matter.
Several fans have tweeted the star asking her why she won't say something or anything at all regarding Kelly and his behavior.
This is not a good idea.
Gaga spoke out about Kesha and Dr. Luke. What makes this different?
Everything R. Kelly has done in regards to controlling women and taking advantage of minors is completely unacceptable and choosing to remain silent is probably the worst thing Gaga can do right now.
Millions look up to her and need to hear her side of the story. This case can always use more evidence and eyewitness accounts. With people staying silent, Kelly will continue to do what he has done for decades.
Gaga has spoken about sexual violence several times before and has a huge platform to speak about this topic and further expose the singer. It is incredibly surprising she rejected the opportunity to bring his behavior to light considering what she stands for and all she has done for victims of sexual violence.
What makes this case different?
Why is R. Kelly causing people and celebrities to remain silent?
This is the time to stand up for his victims and those who don't have a voice right now because they are too afraid to leave. It will be hard to ever reach justice with people choosing to turn the other cheek and ignoring the fact that Kelly has gotten away with countless charges. Although it is not ever easy to speak about such an awful thing, it is needed.
Lady Gaga should take a stand and speak up regardless if it's going to be difficult. This cannot be an exception and there should not ever be any exceptions to something as disturbing and wrong as this.
