By Alexa Stephens
Contributing Writer

In September of 2014, hit recording artist Kesha filed a law suit against her producer and mentor Lukasz Gottwald, better known as Dr. Luke.

The suit revealed that she had been “sexually, physically, verbally and emotionally abused” by her mentor over the ten years they had worked together.

Jim Urie, former Universal Music Group Distribution CEO, argued that, “If Kesha cannot immediately resume recording and having her music promotes, marketed and distributed by a major label, her career is effectively over.”

On Feb. 19, 2016, Kesha sat in court while a judge rejected her preliminary injunction to end her contract with Dr. Luke, ruling that she was just trying to get out of her contract, (something that is typical in the music industry).

Fans are now in an uproar over the judge’s decision, taking to the internet with a mission.
Millions of people are joining together to protest with the #FreeKesha campaign, and on top of that, trending #SonyMusicSupportsRape.

The whole ordeal is something that we are all very familiar with. Accounts of rapes come up, only to be pushed back down when the evidence is deemed to not be enough.

Kesha, just like any other victim of sexual abuse, has had to face a justice system that does not protect her.

Her story is one that sheds light on why rape is one of the most underreported crimes.

In many cases, victims feel as though speaking out about their stories will only be humiliating and not worth it, that no one will believe them–because that’s the way it is.

Amongst the people standing behind her crying “Justice for Kesha” are not only fans but also victims themselves, and celebrities who are using their voice for a change in the way things seem to work.

Taylor Swift said she will donate $250,000 to Kesha in order to help her through a time in which she has no way to make music, to make money.

Lady Gaga took to twitter with a message to Kesha, “There are people all over the world who love you @KeshaRose. And I can say truly I am in awe of your bravery.”

Kesha has made her allegations, has made them public, has the support of millions rallied behind her, yet still the distance she needs from her abuser is just out of reach.

Just like many others, she has faced the risk of reporting what has happened and has lost a lot, but only gained a little.

On Feb. 24, Kesha took to Facebook with a message: “I’m so, so beyond humbled and thankful for all of the support I’ve received from everyone. Words cannot really express the emotions I’ve gone through reading and seeing how amazing everyone has been to me…. I will be forever grateful.”

Seeking justice and freedom, Kesha is standing with an army behind her who are willing to support and believe her until what has gone wrong is turned right.

Email Alexa at:
astephens@live.esu.edu