Weinstein Co. this week declared bankruptcy on Harvey Weinstein’s 66th birthday, and more importantly, announced it would release all employees, victims, and witnesses of Harvey’s alleged behaviour from their non-disclosure agreements.
Finally, an opportunity for these individuals to have their stories heard and their trauma acknowledged.
There’s no doubt the #metoo and #timesup sphere is about to take another intense turn, but at least this time, it’s all for the higher purpose of speaking the truth, creating awareness, and instigating change.
Now that these signed documents have officially been chucked in the bin (right where Harvey belongs) – there’s no telling how many harrowing stories will emerge in the coming months.
A statement from Weinstein Co., which also mentioned the bankruptcy announcement, explained the ultimate goal of abolishing the NDA’s was to help victims cooperate with those investigating the claims.
“No one should be afraid to speak out or coerced to stay quiet… the courageous individuals who have already come forward, your voices have inspired a movement for change across the country and around the world.”
The news has been welcomed by Harvey’s victims, as well as New York State Attorney-General Eric Schneiderman, who last month filed a lawsuit on behalf of Weinstein’s employees.
Schneiderman believes the lifting of the NDAs is a major first step addressing the effects of sexual misconduct in the workplace, and says it will “finally enable voices that have for too long been muzzled to be heard.”
Although some women have already spoken out despite the NDAs, others have hidden their identities while discussing Weinstein because they’ve literally been scared for their lives (not to mention lawyers can be really intimidating).
Just how many new claims will be revealed is yet to be seen, and the extent of these claims could vary in degree.
Either way – victims speaking out need support and understanding, not accusations about cashing in on 15 minutes of fame.
In filing for bankruptcy, Weinstein Co is basically doing everything it can to repair its tarnished reputation and salvage what little clout they have left, but guys, word to the wise – it ain’t much. In fact, it’s zero.
There are now rumblings that Weinstein Co. is in talks to finalise an agreement with an affiliate of Lantern Capital Partners if the courts allow it.
According to Deadline, Lantern Asset Management is offering $US310 million in cash for the company assets, $125 million in assumption of liabilities, and $15 million in “fees related to current projects.”
Despite everything that has happened, and the hundreds of accusations, claims, and testimonials from victims – Weinstein (who was fired last year) still denies any and all accusations of non-consensual sex.
In light of this, please allow me to present you with a birthday message from Rose McGowan (who was the first to speak out against Weinstein last year).
The actress had a special message for the former CEO this week, and I can’t help but feel the need to emulate her sentiment and shout it from the rooftops.
A message to Harvey Weinstein on his birthday #RoseArmy pic.twitter.com/YP61rONbjg
— rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) March 20, 2018