Serena Williams found herself in some searing hot water earlier this week when a Rolling Stone article quoted her as blaming the famous Steubenville, Ohio rape victim for her own rape. Williams has quickly responded to the backlash, saying that she was “misquoted” by RS while also apologizing for her words.
“What happened in Steubenville was a real shock for me,” Williams said in a statement released on her website. “I was deeply saddened. For someone to be raped at only sixteen is such a horrible tragedy! For both families involved—that of the rape victim and of the accused. I am currently reaching out to the girl’s family to let her know that I am deeply sorry for what was written in the Rolling Stone article. What was written—what I supposedly said—is insensitive and hurtful, and I, by no means would say or insinuate that she was at all to blame…I have fought all of my career for women’s equality, women’s equal rights, respect in their fields—anything I could do to support women, I have done. My prayers and support always goes out to the rape victim. In this case, most especially, to an innocent sixteen year old child.”
According to USA Today, fans weren’t the only ones who were upset by the controversial comments. Stacy Allaster, the CEO of the Women’s Tennis Association, also released a statement, saying that she spoke to Williams about being displeased with the situation.
“If she was accurately quoted, then Serena’s comments were both insensitive and wrong. We disagree with the statements and have made that clear,” said Allaster.
Although it’s clear that Williams was under pressure to make right of this terrible controversy, it is promising to hear that Williams will reach out to the family of the rape victim and personally apologize to them.
Hopefully, Williams’ stance on women’s rights and equality will ring true and louder than any words of shame towards the Steubenville rape victim. Many who are watching this controversy unfold will understand why it’s destructive, painful and counterproductive to blame victims of rape instead of holding their attackers responsible for their violent crimes.
Williams isn’t the only celebrity who has had to apologize for their misquoted words. Check out some other famous apologies below. – nicholas robinson
