March 1, 2021

Cuomo's alleged harassment victim: she will not allow him to 'rewrite history'

https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Cuomo-alleged-harassment-victim-says-she-will-not-15990229.php?IPID=Times-Union-HP-CP-Spotlight

Bennett's statement was issued by her attorney, Debra S. Katz, who offered her own analysis as well. Katz also represented Christine Blasey Ford when she said before Congress that then-Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her decades earlier.

"He was not acting as a mentor and his remarks were not misunderstood by Ms. Bennett. He was abusing his power over her for sex. This is textbook sexual harassment," Katz said. "“If, as the governor now acknowledges, he talked to young women who worked for his administration in this manner, the problem is a systemic one and the (New York) attorney general must investigate whether other women were subjected to a sexually hostile work environment."

This is brutal.

Bennetts full statement:

“The Governor has refused to acknowledge or take responsibility for his predatory behavior. As we know, abusers — particularly those with tremendous amounts of power — are often repeat offenders who engage in manipulative tactics to diminish allegations, blame victims, deny wrongdoing and escape consequences. It took the governor 24 hours and significant backlash to allow for a truly independent investigation. These are not the actions of someone who simply feels misunderstood; they are the actions of an individual who wields his power to avoid justice.

“In a clear effort to perform a sensitivity that he simply does not possess, the governor has implied that he wants his supporters to stand down and respect my decision to speak out. In coming forward I fully expected to be attacked by those who reflexively question the honesty or motivation of those who report sexual harassment. I am not deterred by these voices. Instead, I have focused on the overwhelming love and support I have received from friends and strangers alike. Thank you for holding space for me and lifting me up in what has been one of the most vulnerable moments of my life.

“Coming forward was an excruciating decision. I decided to share my story because I had faith that I would be supported and believed. This is often not the case. Sharing my experience was only possible because of past survivors who stood up and told their stories. I hope that my story helps other survivors feel like they can stand in their truth.

“To survivors reading this: I believe you. I see you. I hear you. Your story is valid, your pain is real and your anger is justified. I am sending you my love, support and solidarity. You are carrying an unbelievable burden — one that takes time and energy to untangle. Each journey, including my own, is a long and winding one. No two are the same. That said, I believe we can empower each other. For anyone who needs to hear this, know I am holding space for you, too.

“To the governor’s survivors: I am here. Lindsey (Boylan) is here. You do not have to say a single word. But if you choose to speak your truth, we will be standing with you. I promise."