South African author, publisher stands up for #MeToo campaign
The hashtag which has trended both nationally and internationally has inspired many, including Melinda Ferguson, to open up about their horrific experiences.
Listen as Melinda Ferguson shares her #MeToo story with Jane in the podcast, then read more below:
You will remember that we recently talked about Harvey Weinstein, the Hollywood mogul who has had serious allegations of sexual abuse leveled against him. I don't even want to get into that as it makes my blood boil when I think about all the women who have opened up, claiming that they, too, have fallen victim to him.
Read: Leaked audio of Harvey Weinstein admitting to alleged sexual assault
The hashtag #MeToo has literally dominated my Facebook feed for days now. #MeToo started going viral after the allegations of Weinstein's abuse. Many started opening up and coming forward to share their stories of abuse and harrassment within the industry. According to Good House Keeping, it was actress Alyssa Milano who started the trend of encouraging others to share their stories.
Read - Cara Delevingne: Harvey Weinstein asked me to kiss another woman
If you’ve been sexually harassed or assaulted write ‘me too’ as a reply to this tweet. pic.twitter.com/k2oeCiUf9n
— Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) October 15, 2017
Day after day, I see the words and can't believe my eyes. It would seem that I belong to a teeny tiny microcosm of people who have never been hurt or damaged at the hands of a predator. What a sad, heartbreaking reality.
I spoke to Melinda Ferguson after I saw her raw, honest, and courageous post on Facebook about the years of sexual abuse which started as little as four-year-old and included a gang-rape incident back in 1999.
You wonder how anyone can ever get over such a traumatic ordeal? I salute Melinda and the many others who have taken a brave stand to share their stories.I urge parents to protect and talk to their children, as these sordid beasts can lurk in familiar and safe spaces.
Also read: Number of sexual assault victims at Soweto school rises to 83