#MeToo: TIME’s 2017 Person of the Year
December 7, 2017
Over 10 years ago, activist Tarana Burke started the #MeToo movement to raise support and awareness for those who have been sexually assaulted. However, the movement has gained attention in light of women coming forward with accusations against Hollywood film director Harvey Weinstein, giving many women (and men) the courage to share their experiences using #MeToo.
Among candidates such as Donald Trump, Colin Kaepernick, and Kim Jong Un, TIME magazine has declared the “#MeToo Silence Breakers” Person of the Year 2017. Some of the women credited with inspiring the movement, in addition to Tarana Burke, are actors Ashley Judd, Rose McGowan, and Alyssa Milano.
The magazine cover (pictured below) features some of leaders of the movement, also known as the “Silence Breakers.” They are
pictured wearing all black, and the women’s arm pictured in the bottom right corner of the cover is meant to represent the women choosing to remain anonymous but want people to know: “#MeToo.”
In the article, TIME shares stories and photographs of the individuals who inspired and contributed to the #MeToo movement. For example, in actor Selma Blair’s interview with TIME, she “recalls him [a sexual abuser] telling her that if she said anything, he would stab her eyes out with a Bic pen and throw her in the Hudson River.” Another woman featured in the article chose to stay “anonymous because I live in a very small community. And they just think usually that we’re lying and complainers,” exhibiting the fear of stigma that remains in some of these women even after coming forward with their stories.
Overall, the article could be considered a victory for those who have faced sexual assault as well as a victory for feminists. Congratulations, “Silence Breakers”!
Photo Credit: TIME Magazine, Photographers
Billy & Hells
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Graham Sampou • Dec 14, 2017 at 6:07 pm
Great Article Livy! I’ve seen this cover all over the internet and heard of the movement before, but I never knew the arm in the corner represents the anonymous women. Very insightful and heavy, I think it’s great you are writing about it because I believe it deserves even more attention than its getting right now. The problem of sexual harassment is far larger than many could ever imagine. For example, the quote you used from the women being threatened is mind boggling and frankly makes me sick to my stomach. Additionally, the piece you incorporated about the woman who chose to remain anonymous because she was afraid she would be ridiculed and accused of lying is disgusting to me. Its absurd and malign as the women who come forward already have to open up to society about a horrific event that occurred in their life and being accused of lying is disrespectful and gives them the feeling they will never be heard. These women are strong, brave, and trailblazers for all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted.This is a major step toward us ridding this country and the world of these heinous crimes.
Cromwell • Dec 13, 2017 at 8:49 am
Excellent reportage Ms. Edic…true to your colors as a feminist!
Gucci Mane • Dec 7, 2017 at 4:01 pm
Key word “person” not people. Although this is brave of them, lots of people speak out every year. So maybe someone who saved or rescued others (J.J. Watt). This guy raised millions of dollars for Hurricane Harvey victims. Or how about ol’ Donald Trump. Donated millions and millions and millions and millions of dollars to hurricane victims, and this was all out of his pocket. None or this was government money.