Blake Lively has broken her silence on the recent court ruling in her sexual harassment case against Justin Baldoni.
The actress turned to her Instagram on Monday to share her thoughts and gratitude, days after the court dismissed her claim against Baldoni.
In all honesty, the ‘Gossip Girl’ star admitted that she is looking forward to telling her story to the judges.
She started: ““I am grateful for the Court’s ruling, which will allow the core of my case to be presented to a jury next month, and for the opportunity to finally tell my story in full at trial, for my own good, but also for those who do not have the same opportunity to… many of whom I have deeply known and loved in my life, and the countless I will never know.”
She adds, “The last thing I wanted in my life was a lawsuit, but I filed this case because of the pervasive retaliation I faced, and continue to face, for privately and professionally asking for a safe work environment for myself and others.”
“I hope the Court’s ruling shows others that no matter how unfathomably painful it is, you can express your opinion.
“Don’t be distracted by the digital soap opera. The constant packaging of this lawsuit as a… ‘Celebrity Drama’ is not only irresponsible, but its intention is to prevent you from encountering yourselves in my story.”
“The physical pain of digital violence is very real.
The actress added: “It’s abuse. And it’s everywhere. Not just in the news, but in your communities and schools.”
“If you look closely, my claims won’t be the first or the last time you see examples of the extreme dangers of retaliation and digital warfare. And it often won’t target celebrities or those who might have something to say.
“It affects us all. Across the political spectrum. Pay attention to all the ways we can be manipulated online. Digital manipulation is described as ‘untraceable’. If you have children who use a phone, they are among the most vulnerable. Protect them. Have conversations with them.
The actress continued: “Studies estimate that between 16% and 58% of women have experienced online abuse or stalking, with 97% of gender-based violence service providers reporting technology-facilitated abuse in their cases.
“So much important work has already been done to expose systems, tactics and players that are causing harm. Some of the work to create greater safety is happening during the process, but it will continue long after this process is over. This is the work I am most proud of.
“I couldn’t begin to stand up without the countless people who came before me – and the masses who are still around us – who created laws, created social change, sparked conversations, rallied, worked privately and publicly, risked and sometimes lost everything for the safety of others in all spaces. Some whose names we know, most not. Thank you. All of you.
“I will never stop doing my part in the fight to expose the systems and people that seek to harm, shame, silence, and exact revenge on victims. I know it is a privilege to be able to stand up. I will not waste it. D
Your support keeps me going.
