TW: Mentions of sexual abuse and trafficking
In a bittersweet ruling, R. Kelly was convicted on all charges for the sexual exploitation of a child, bribery, racketeering, and sex trafficking in Brooklyn earlier this week, facing a possible 10 years to life in prison. While this justice is a relief, especially for the survivors who boldly stepped forward to share their stories, the fact that Kelly is only now being held truly accountable for his actions is troubling. Back in 2002, he was indicted for child pornography but wasn’t tried until 2008, where he was then acquitted of all charges. In the period between 2002 and the present day, a number of additional charges have been added to Kelly’s sentencing that could have been prevented.
Despite the expansive list of accusations held against Kelly, his music career continued on – his songs are still readily available on streaming services like Spotify, although they have been removed from Spotify’s recommended playlists. At his verdict, R. Kelly fans gathered near the court to show their support proving that, in some eyes, a celebrity really can do no wrong. The ability for some to turn a blind eye to survivors to defend Kelly is frustrating to say the least, especially considering his history. Red flags were visible as early as 1994 when, at 27, he married 15-year old R&B singer, Aaliyah. But, the court’s ruling does show that times are changing, and that a repeated history of sexual abuse, especially against women of color, is not to be tolerated. This trial is just the tip of the iceberg for a deeply rooted issue in the United States, but it’s a start.
And, while Kelly’s case is arguably gaining more media traction since he’s famous, the court’s ability to indict and convict Kelly does demonstrate the positive effects that the #MeToo movement has had on the judicial system when handling celebrities’ cases. Instances like this prove that celebrities, while frequently given immunity for their star status, are not above the law. For survivors, this is a sign of hope, of recognition that their experiences are valid and that perpetrators should be held accountable, no matter who they are.
As the news circulates around this case, Survivors to Superheroes stands not only with the survivors who testified against Kelly, but all survivors. May the verdict of this case aid you in your path to healing.
Image from BBC article, “The testimony that convicted R. Kelly”
Alyssa Henderson
My name is Alyssa, and I’m a graduate from the University of California, Davis with a degree in English and film, currently working in the tech industry. When I first learned about Survivors to Superheroes, I was instantly touched by its goals to educate, support, and empower survivors because, unfortunately, there aren’t as many safe and helpful resources for young survivors online as there should be. Writing has guided me through challenging times and, with our literary journal, I’m especially excited to help cultivate a space where survivors and their loved ones can creatively express themselves through art and literature as a part of their healing process. In my spare time, you can find me cheering on the San Jose Sharks, attempting to play the bass guitar, and relaxing at the beach.
