Celebrities react to Harvey Weinstein verdict
Harvey Weinstein's conviction Monday was a bittersweet moment for many of his accusers and others involved in the #MeToo movement.
Weinstein was found guilty of criminal sexual assault and of rape in the third degree, but was acquitted of the more serious charges of predatory sexual assault and of rape in the first degree.
In a joint statement, the "Silence Breakers," a group of women who have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct, including actresses Ashley Judd and Rosanna Arquette, shared that while they found it "disappointing that today's outcome does not deliver the true, full justice that so many deserve," they were satisfied that "Harvey Weinstein will now forever be known as a convicted serial predator."
"This conviction would not be possible without the testimony of the courageous women and the many women who have spoken out. Despite intimidation from Weinstein’s legal team, they courageously shared their stories with the jury, the courtroom and the world," the statement continued. "This has been a flawed process from the beginning but has further exposed the difficulties women face in coming forward to tell the truth about powerful abusers. Their bravery will forever be remembered in history."
A spokeswoman for the #MeToo movement also released a statement, commending the survivors "who courageously testified" and the jury members who delivered the verdict.
"Harvey Weinstein operated with impunity and without remorse for decades in Hollywood. Yet, it still took years, and millions of voices raised, for one man to be held accountable by the justice system.," the statement read. "For some, this has been a Hollywood battle between famous actresses and a larger-than-life producer. Some, have tired and begun to ask whether we should care about these Hollywood celebrities."
"This case reminds us that sexual violence thrives on unchecked power and privilege. The implications reverberate far beyond Hollywood and into the daily lives of all of us in the rest of the world," the statement continued. "Whether you are an office worker, a nanny, an assistant, a cook, a factory worker--- we all have to deal with the spectre of sexual violence derailing our lives. And, though today a man has been found guilty, we have to wonder whether anyone will care about the rest of us tomorrow. This is why we say MeToo."
Others also reacted to the verdict on social media. Those sentiments are below.
ABC News was not previously naming Jessica Mann, but she is now being identified because she has told the district attorney's office that she does not object to being named publicly.
If you or someone you know experienced sexual assault and is seeking resources, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
