Lady Gaga always astonishes us with her extravagant couture and signature storytelling in her music. Her newest music video, “Til It Happens to You,” with lyrics by Diane Warren, exemplifies the powerful message every college student should be aware of.
Gaga confronts sexual harassment and rape through this PSA, as the song was recorded for "The Hunting Ground," a documentary on rape throughout college campuses. The five minute, black and white music video illustrates three rape incidents in a dorm room and college party setting, along with the aftermath of their tragedies. Positive messages including, "I am worthy" and "I love myself," are depicted, adding a special touch to such a meaningful story. By the end, each victim seeks help from their fellow peers and family about their assault. It contains a number of violent graphics, as Lady Gaga noted beforehand, however, that is the harsh reality of what young women and men face everyday across the country.
If you were never a big Gaga fan, (trust me, I wasn't either), I assure you this video will change that. Many of you may not know this, but Lady Gaga herself was raped at the age of 19. Now, as a 19 year-old college student, this hits me personally. Sexual assault is an ongoing discussion throughout college campuses, and the numbers continue to skyrocket every day. According to The New York Times, one in four women experience sexual assault on campus. Scary, right? Think about it. The girl you copy off of in your 10 a.m. biology class can be a victim of such cruelty, and unfortunately, she may never admit to it. Whether they feel ashamed, or do not think they'd be taken seriously, hopefully this video shines light to how speaking up is the best option to deal with such a horrific assault.
A portion of proceeds from the song's sales will go to both survivors and organizations in fight against sexual assault. Well done, Gaga.