“What I fear most is power with impunity. I fear abuse of power, and the power to abuse.”
Isabel Allende’s words could have been written for this moment.
On Monday, Russell Brand was sentenced to ten and a half years in prison for raping one woman and sexually assaulting three others. For years, Brand’s boasts – which included making women choke, non-consensual sex with a younger woman and even a joke about rape and murder – were broadcast, laughed at and rewarded. Fame gave him power, while the entertainment industry’s stubbornly blind eye granted him impunity.
This week has also seen continued fallout for David Walliams, who was dropped by his publisher after reports of an internal investigation into his behaviour towards junior female members of staff. Walliams denies the allegations, which have not been tested in court, but the wider point stands: when women raise concerns about a powerful man, organisations must take them seriously, however big his name.
Through talk shows, podcasts, reality TV and more, men who abuse women are permitted to enter our homes. There were murmurs, there were jokes, there were ‘whaddya gonna do?’ eyerolls, but no concrete action. Abusers don’t just count on that culture, they revel in it.
What they don’t see coming is the strength of survivors.
Speaking to journalists, to police and in court, the women Brand abused raised their voices, again and again. His sentencing should not be remarkable, but it is, and the women who brought it about must be celebrated. Our thoughts are with them, and as strong as our sympathy is our pride in women using their voices to bring about lasting change. Their courage is helping to bring about the day when no man believes he is entitled to dehumanise women, and no industry is willing or permitted to look away.
As for Walliams, time will tell, but the media response to allegations about his conduct shows that women are increasingly seen and heard.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by sexual violence, you are not alone and Solace is here for you. If there’s anything you need to report or simply talk about, do not hesitate to reach out.