Survivor Groups Music Industry Sexual Abuse Address

Survivor-led groups demand music industry action on sexual misconduct, naming over two dozen artists and executives in a new report.

Four powerful advocacy organizations, led by prominent figures like Gretchen Carlson and Jennifer Newsom, have joined forces to demand action from the music industry regarding sexual misconduct. The coalition, which includes Lift Our Voices, Representation Project, Female Composers Safety League, and Punk Rock Therapist, published a comprehensive report titled "Sound Off: The Make Music Safe Report." This report compiled decades of allegations against over two dozen artists and industry executives, including big names like Sean "Diddy" Combs, Axl Rose, and Russell Simmons.

During a press conference to announce the report, Samantha Maloney, co-founder of Punk Rock Therapist, emphasized the importance of listening to survivors and working towards ending sexual abuse in the music industry. The leaders behind the report have personal experiences with sexual abuse claims, such as Carlson settling with Fox News over harassment allegations and Jennifer Newsom testifying in Harvey Weinstein's trial.

In a letter addressed to major music industry CEOs, the advocates outlined five demands, including ending non-disclosure agreements and adopting survivor rights policies. They also called upon legislators to investigate the music business and hold hearings to address the systemic issues of sexual abuse within the industry.

The report sheds light on the pervasive culture of sexual abuse in the music industry, spanning seven decades and involving artists, executives, and shareholders. It calls for legislative action and shareholder activism to force companies to change their culture and be held accountable for their actions.

The release of the report comes at a time when survivors are coming forward with allegations, empowered by recent legislation in New York and California. During the press conference, women like Michelle Rhoades and Sara Lewis shared their stories of assault and the need for industry-wide change to protect women pursuing their dreams without fear of harassment or abuse. This report serves as a call to action for the music industry to address its long-standing issues of sexual misconduct and create a safer environment for all individuals involved.

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