The Impact of the Diddy/Sean Combs Verdict: A Reflection on Healing and Justice

Like many, I was stunned by the verdict in the Diddy/Sean Combs case. My heart aches for those who bravely came forward to share their stories. I understand this was not the outcome they hoped for, and that hurt is palpable.

Understanding the Verdict and Its Implications

I want to be clear. I am not involved with this case in any way. My intention here is not to argue that the verdict was wrong. I believe it’s crucial to address some comments I’ve seen from his legal team. There’s a recurring rhetoric in these legal proceedings that needs to be challenged.

The Harmful Narrative

The defense referred to Cassie Ventura, the lead witness, as a “winner” in this outcome. Let’s clarify this notion. There is no winner in situations like this. Nothing can undo what happened to her. Money will not erase the trauma she experienced. She must work toward healing and find a closure that feels right for her. I genuinely hope she finds it.

One harmful argument that surfaces often is the idea that victims are merely seeking money and fame. This perspective is not only ridiculous; it is damaging. Being a rape victim carries no cachet. It is not a badge of honor. There is no financial windfall for those who have suffered from sexual assault.

Realities of Sexual Assault Survivors

For instance, the “record-breaking class action” for military sexual trauma survivors awarded me $55,000. That amount hardly reflects the pain of being raped multiple times. It certainly does not compensate for my Complex PTSD or the career I lost.

In my case, I had a legacy report that led to an arrest and charges, but then the Crown chose to withdraw it just before going to court. I was not surprised. I knew the odds were stacked against me in a sexual assault case. With charges stemming from 30 years ago and no physical evidence, the chances were slim.

I was later asked, “What was the point then? Nothing happened!”

But, in truth, something did happen.

The Impact on Lives

The man in my case had planned meticulously to put me in a vulnerable position. He wanted me to be alone and likely inebriated. I thought about that day every single day after it happened. It affected every aspect of my life. I am not the mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, officer, or woman I would have been if our paths had never crossed.

Even during a painful separation from my former spouse, he referenced this incident. He told me, “I wish you would have told me you were raped. I never would have married you if I knew you were broken.”

The truth is, he likely did not think of me very often. He probably did not remember my name or much about me— until he was arrested and charged with sexual assault and unlawful containment. Then, he had to hire a lawyer. He had to explain to his family what happened. I am sure the news circulated. I bet he thought of me then.

That gives me a sense of closure.

What Matters

Ultimately, what happened to me mattered. That is what we all want. We want acknowledgment that our experiences were not okay. It is not about money — but sometimes, financial consequences are the only way to encourage change.

It was not okay. It mattered.

Cassie Ventura matters. Virginia Giuffre matters. Gisele Pelicot matters.

We all matter.

Moving Forward Together

In the aftermath of this verdict, we must stand together. Survivors deserve an environment where they can share their truths without the threat of being dismissed or blamed.

By coming forward, survivors not only seek justice for themselves but pave the way for others. One brave action can inspire another. We can create a culture where speaking out leads to healing, understanding, and, ultimately, justice.

As we process the implications of the Diddy/Sean Combs verdict, let's remember that our voices matter. Our experiences matter. Healing takes time, and it is a journey each survivor must navigate in their own way.

Together, we can support one another in this shared experience of resilience and hope.