What’s happening:
Actor David Schwimmer, widely recognized for his role in the television series ‘Friends,’ has condemned organizations that deny or ignore claims of sexual violence committed against Israelis by Hamas terrorists.
Why it matters:
Schwimmer, who has a long history of advocacy for the victims of sexual violence, asserts that the unwillingness to believe survivors adds to their trauma. His statements represent a call for acknowledgment of the crimes committed against Israelis, and a plea for solidarity with all victims of sexual assault, regardless of their nationality or background.
Key details:
The issue was brought to light by Schwimmer in an Instagram post intended for his 8.3 million followers. His critique was paired with a recent New York Times article that reported instances of sexual assault against Israeli women during attacks by Hamas.
Background:
Schwimmer has a nearly 30-year track record of supporting both child and adult survivors of sexual abuse. Drawing from his tenure on the Board of Directors for The Rape Foundation, he emphasized the importance of believing survivors for their healing and the pursuit of justice.
Between the lines:
In his post, Schwimmer questioned where the outrage was from organizations that work for survivor’s benefits, highlighting what he views as a discriminatory silence when the survivors are Jewish. He called this an avoidance of compassion and personal responsibility.
Broader implications:
The actor’s statements shed light on a broader issue of selective advocacy, suggesting that some organizations may let unconscious biases dictate their support. Schwimmer hopes that increased awareness will change attitudes and lead to universally applied compassion for all survivors of sexual violence.
What they’re saying:
“Their refusal to believe the survivors have RE-TRAUMATIZED them, as well as their families, friends, and those of us who did believe them,” explained Schwimmer. He encourages those who were previously in denial to use their voices in support and to become real allies to the cause.
Related Areas of Concern:
Issues of Hamas, Sexual Assault, and the impact of global media coverage like that from the New York Times on public perception and advocacy.
This story was first published on jpost.com.