Why a victim of sexual assault, or at the very least someone who has made their mental health struggles extremely public over the past year, seems like a worthy target to Instagram trolls is beyond our comprehension.
Since 2014, “Die Young” singer Kesha has been wrapped up in a legal battle with her ex-producer, Dr. Luke, claiming “continuous and ongoing years of sexual, physical, verbal, and emotional abuse and harassment at [his] hands.” Frustratingly enough, thus far the pop star has been unable to legally escape her contract with her former collaborator’s Kemosabe Records.
So, when Kesha decided to take a vacation, recalibrate and post a few empowering if somewhat suggestive Instagram pics, the body-shaming and misogynistic comments that followed were understandably the least of her worries.
Her fiery reaction to the negativity and “asking for it” comments that peppered the stunning selfie series was perfect. The vocalist posted a magnificent photo of her (incredibly sculpted) self silhouetted against the ocean and sunset, arms outstretched, middle fingers waving.
“I have been battling depression and an eating disorder for a while now. my career is in a strange place and it feels like I’m fighting an uphill fight some days. but I have decided to take my life back. my freedom. my happiness. my voice. my worth. I will not just fucking be quiet and hide. today I will say fuck it and live. So FUUUUUUUUCK it. today I’m making that choice. AND IM HAPPY AS A DAMN CLAM. and also a big ol fuck u if u wanna hate on my body. just remember that makes u look like a dickhead,” she declared.
We’re beyond elated to see the singer is healing, given her horrible ordeal. Hopefully this is but one of many bullshit-calling, strength-affirming, body positive posts we see from public figures this summer. Normalizing the discussion of insecurities and mental health issues, especially during the season where many feel the most vulnerable, is a critical part of tackling these antagonists.
Stay slaying, Kesha.
[ via NY Mag ]