Tarana Burke, founder of the original Me Too movement, ignited a provocative discussion with Marc Lamont Hill. They joined us to share their perspectives, right here on the show UpFront. Burke’s fervor underscored the larger impact and implications of sexual violence on society at large in the U.S. She looked back on how the movement has evolved since it first burst onto the global stage in 2017.
Burke stressed the alarming epidemic rate of sexual violence, reminding those present that it is a real and present danger to millions of people today. From her perspective, she said the Me Too movement made all the difference in building momentum. For many survivors, that support feels like it may never be enough. This feeling is especially poignant given that the movement is celebrating its eighth anniversary.
The conversation delved into the ongoing repercussions of Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal activities, particularly regarding Ghislaine Maxwell’s recent conviction for her role in Epstein’s sex trafficking of minors. Burke pointed out that Maxwell is the only individual connected to Epstein who has been held accountable through significant legal action. In the process, business elites, academics and politicians—by their very nature—have evaded accountability.
Burke noted that sexual harassers and abusers at the highest level, including Donald Trump, have been reported and accused time and time again. Given Trump’s long history of ties and associations with Epstein, it has raised red flags. Photographs and documents underscore these connections, widening a fissure within his own political base. These connections point to some larger questions. They give an inside look at this new accountability of powerful men that came with the Me Too movement.
Burke underscored the enormity of Epstein’s operation. He stressed that it doesn’t stop with Maxwell and Trump; it includes many powerful leaders across multiple sectors. She pushed back, saying that the systemic nature of sexual violence is too easily obscured by individual cases. She urged us to more deeply interrogate the societal frameworks that allow for this behavior.
As they undertook to understand what the Me Too movement had meant and done for survivors, Burke found herself in a position to celebrate how far we’ve come. She added there was a lot more work to do. Vera said change has come in part because of improved visibility, but long-term change will take time, as well as investment and dedication to aiding survivors.
