Mariska Hargitay, best known for her role as Captain Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: SVU,” was given the honor of lighting the Empire State Building on April 5th.
When Hargitay started working on “SVU” in 1999, she was shocked by the statistics of sexual assault in America. This influenced her decision to partner with Joyful Her Heart Foundation in 2004. Thereby, she continued Captain Benson's efforts in the real world.
Hargitay has worked on multiple sexual assault campaigns, raising funds and using her platform to voice important concerns. This includes fighting to end the rape kit backlog and passing important legislation for survivors. It also includes all of her ferocity and emotion that she shows as Captain Benson.
That's all.
She embodies a strong woman who fights to make the world a better place for women and survivors of sexual assault, both on and off screen.
The occasion to light up the Empire State Building was not in celebration of the 25th anniversary of “SVU,” but in conjunction with the Joyful Heart Foundation in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Every April, individuals and organizations work to raise awareness and prevent sexual abuse, harassment, and violence. Literally, what better way to shed light on that than with Hargitay?
In the current climate, celebrities are often accused of sexual crimes.Recently, the Department of Homeland Security conducted a raid. Sean “Diddy” Combs' home as part of an ongoing sex trafficking investigation.
Combs faces six counts of human trafficking, sexual abuse and physical assault. This is just another cog in the “'' wheel.Celebrities are “machines'' that use their power of fame and power to exploit and manipulate others.
While this can happen in any field, it seems oddly common in the media industry, where powerful people use their positions to harm others. Dozens of others have similar allegations, including Combs, Conor McGregor, Dream and Jamie Foxx.
Hargitay sets a great example as someone who has fought against sexual violence for decades.
In this case, there may not be a need to separate art and artist. She doesn't have to worry about telling other people that she likes her. You too can be a loud and proud Hargitay fan.
Hearing Hargitay speak at the lights reminded us of her motivations and that celebrities can and should use their platforms to effect change. Watch the entire ceremony, including her moving speech. hereand then kick back and watch “SVU.”
