Lady Gaga, recently named Billboard's Woman of the Year, rightfully deserved her title after her latest public service music video "'Til It Happens To You" was released. The pop singer has always been recognized for her provocative, yet unique music videos, her choice of clothing/dress for award shows and her recent debut in the TV series "American Horror Story." Now, the star is diving into today's social issues and is ready to take a stand and help fight sexual assault.
The video focused on the problem of sexual assault on college campuses across the nation. Though the video was graphic at points, it sent a deeper message while illustrating the rape culture that occurs in colleges nowadays. There are still many people who don’t think sexual assault is as big of an issue on college campuses as the media portrays it to be; however, those people are wrong. Sexual assault is a huge problem on nearly every college campus, and believe it or not, there’s a good chance you know someone who has been sexually assaulted.
This subject hits close to home for Lady Gaga. Recently, she revealed that she was raped at the age of 19. She has a deep connection with the video and the message it portrays, yet she is not in the video herself. Rather, she wanted the focus to be on the message, not her. The video was relatable by visually and graphically telling stories of women who had been sexually assaulted while at college, showing that this issue could happen to anyone and that there are ways to come to terms and cope.
I highly recommend and encourage everyone to watch the video and listen to the words. They will begin to resonate inside of you, and suddenly, you will feel all the feels and might even start crying. This video is truly powerful and emotional. (Note: If you purchase the song, a portion of the proceeds will go to helping survivors of sexual assault.)
Gaga tweeted, “We hope u feel our love & solidarity through the song & perhaps find some peace in knowing u r not alone through this film." She seems to be deeply passionate in this cause, not only because of her personal connection, but because she genuinely wants to help people and wants them to know that they are never alone. Not only has Lady Gaga taken a stand against sexual assault by releasing a music video (which served as a PSA as well), she has also gotten involved with many movements and campaigns regarding sexual assault. The woman doesn’t stop, and neither should we.
She is an empowering human being who everyone needs to take seriously and put the meat dress-wearing lady behind themselves. The words, “1 in 5 college women will be sexually assaulted this year unless something changes” appeared at the end of the video. That’s a heart-stopping, disturbing, and very true statistic. This “new” Gaga, who might dress a little less crazy and be a little less provocative, is ready for change. We can help make that change happen – together.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, speak up and open up. You are not alone. You will be taken seriously and you will receive the help you need. This is a serious issue. Let’s show our support and help Lady Gaga, a sexual assault survivor, make change happen.
