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Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Top Sexual Assault Hotline Bans Referrals To Resources For Marginalized Groups
The largest anti-sexual violence organization in the United States is prohibiting its employees from making referrals to resources for marginalized communities — reportedly out of fear that the Trump administration will cut its funding for promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) has dropped more than two dozen resources from its list of permitted referrals, according to documents obtained by The New York Times. Staff and volunteers who answer phone calls, online chats and texts have been told not to make referrals to organizations that help immigrants and LGBTQ+ people — who are at disproportionately higher risk of experiencing sexual violence. 'Our priority is and always will be to ensure the continuation of our mission of ending sexual violence and helping every survivor who reaches out to us,' a RAINN spokesperson told HuffPost on Thursday. But RAINN confirmed to the Times that it has removed referrals to LGBTQ-centered mental health hotlines, the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, a group educating students on sex-based discrimination, and books on understanding same-sex sexual violence, among others. RAINN and its local affiliates run the National Sexual Assault Hotline, one of the country's biggest crisis lines for survivors of sexual violence. RAINN also operates a federally funded crisis line for members of the military. The nonprofit attributed the changes to President Donald Trump's executive orders that cut federal funding for organizations with diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The orders currently face legal challenges, but RAINN moved to comply with them regardless. 'We have done everything possible to ensure both that we are compliant with federal requirements and that we stay true to our values of offering every survivor the respect and support they deserve,' the spokesperson said. 'And that's never going to change.' The spokesperson did not immediately say whether the group is planning to add alternative resources for marginalized people to make up for ones that were dropped. RAINN previously faced backlash for removing all mention of transgender people from its website, The Washington Post reported in February. The organization erased a page featuring stories by trans survivors as well as another detailing RAINN's inclusion policy, according to archived information obtained by journalist Mady Castigan. Volunteers have reportedly sent multiple letters to RAINN's board of directors urging the group to restore resources for marginalized communities and create a plan for operating should the group lose federal funding. The most recent letter cited the Trevor Project, a suicide-prevention group for LGBTQ youth that launched an emergency fundraising campaign to keep its resources in the face of potential funding cuts. 'When trans, queer, Black, brown, Asian and undocumented survivors come to the hotline in crisis, we are not allowed to provide them with the same level of supportive care as other survivors,' the most recent letter said, according to the Times. 'RAINN may face uncertain risks in the future if we stand by marginalized survivors, but we are certain to lose our values now if we do not stand with them today.' Trump Administration Proposes Eliminating Funding For Crucial Mental Health Services Leak Shows Trump Administration Could Make A Shocking Cut With Deadly Consequences We Work In DEI. Trump's Wild Anti-Diversity Claims Are Spreading Popular Lies.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Diddy trial: Cassie accuses mogul of raping her, threatening to release sex tapes
The Brief Are you or someone you know a recent survivor of sexual assault? Help is available. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) provides a 24/7 national sexual assault hotline, which can be reached at 1-800-656-4673. NEW YORK (KTTV) – Singer Cassie shared horrifying details of alleged rape and abuse by Sean "Diddy" Combs as her ex-boyfriend is being tried for sex trafficking charges. What we know Cassie, whose legal name is Casandra Ventura, appeared in court on Wednesday in New York City to testify against Combs. According to a report from the Associated Press, Cassie testified that Combs broke into her home in Los Angeles and raped her on the living room floor after she wanted to break up with him. In addition to the alleged rape incident, Cassie also testified that Combs forced her into "hundreds" of encounters with male sex workers – with Combs watching and controlling the alleged encounters, AP reports. AP added in the reports that Combs threatened to release videos of the sex encounters to make Cassie "look like a slut." RELATED:Cassie Ventura testifies about abuse and 'freak offs' According to a report from FOX-affiliate station WNYW-TV, Cassie also testified that she recruited more than a dozen male sex workers "at Combs' behest for 'freak offs' in Las Vegas, Miami and Los Angeles." She said she had sex with all of the aforementioned dozen-plus workers, WNYW-TV reports. When a prosecutor asked Cassie how many "freak-offs" she was involved in, the singer responded, "Impossible to know. Hundreds?" according to WNYW-TV. Diddy's attorneys claim the sexual encounters between Cassie and Combs were consensual, WNYW-TV reported during Wednesday's trial coverage. On Wednesday, Cassie testified that the singer was seeing fellow musician Kid Cudi while she was still dating Combs, WNYW-TV reports. When Combs found out about that, Combs allegedly lunged at her "with a corkscrew and kicked her in the back," WNYW-TV reports. Combs pleaded not guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. PREVIOUS COVERAGE:Diddy and Cassie relationship timeline Are you or someone you know a recent survivor of domestic violence? Help is available. Los Angeles County has a hotline, which can be reached at 1-800-978-3600. A national hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233. Cassie detailed the 2016 Los Angeles hotel incident where she was beaten and kicked by Combs. Parts of the incident was caught on camera, which CNN ended up releasing a video of, nearly eight years after the assault took place. The singer testified that she and Combs had attended the premiere of the film "The Perfect Match" only two days after the 2016 hotel incident. Cassie testified that she "used makeup to cover bruises and wore sunglasses to hide a black eye for the premiere," AP reports. The Source This writeup used information from reports published by the Associated Press and WNYW-TV, a New York FOX Television Stations-affiliate station.
Time of India
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Sophie Nyweide cause of death: 'Mammoth and An Invisible Sign' child actor passes away at 24
Sophie Nyweide, a former child star best known for her heartfelt performances in Mammoth and An Invisible Sign , has died at the age of 24. Her death was confirmed by her mother, actress Shelly Gibson . According to her statements, the incident took place on April 14 in Bennington , Vermont . While the cause remains undisclosed, police have launched an investigation. Family and obituary reveal personal struggles Nyweide's obituary, published a few days after her passing, painted a picture of a deeply artistic and sensitive soul. The details within the obituary show she trusted everyone while maintaining kindness, with being easily victimized for her nature. The tribute highlighted her battle with trauma, together with her usage of self-medications, which tragically ended in her death. She turned down family assistance, therapist guidance, and police intervention while refusing to accept professional help, while asserting she could sustain on her own. The deceased's relatives want her tale to serve as a motivational force that will assist troubled individuals while safeguarding those who suffer. Donations were recommended through the obituary to be given to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network as a tribute for the departed individual. Also Read : Who is Karen Read? All you need to know about Karen Read trial by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cost Of Gold Jewelry From Luxembourg Might Surprise You [See Prices] Luxury Jewelry | search ads Undo Sophie's early passion for acting The acting career of Nyweide started at age six, before she played her first role in Bella (2006). She expressed that she frequently asked her mother to allow her to pursue acting because she admired the acting profession through her mother's work. Mammoth (2009) established Amy as a Hollywood actor when she paired with Gael García Bernal and Michelle Williams in the same film. During 2010, Nyweide portrayed a bright student in the story about growth and healing in the movie An Invisible Sign, alongside Jessica Alba. The critics commended her portrayal of mature emotions, which exceeded her years as an actor. Later roles and life away from the spotlight Nyweide encountered initial success in the film industry, but very few roles appeared in her professional filmography afterward. The teenager did a couple of short movies before appearing briefly in Darren Aronofsky's Noah (2014). Her obituary details that she experienced a state of inner bliss during film production. For her, acting was a safe space that provided comfort through understanding, among other things. Performance and storytelling remained important among all the other things for her. Live Events Also Read : Mother's day gifts 2025: Struggling with Mother's Day gifts ideas? Here are top 10 options that can bring a wide smile on your mom's face The sudden death of Nyweide reminds us about the struggles that people endure silently. Her loved ones hope her legacy brings awareness and compassion to those struggling in silence. FAQs: 1. What was Sophie Nyweide best known for? She gained recognition as a child actress in the films Mammoth and An Invisible Sign . 2. What contributed to her death according to her obituary? The obituary mentions personal trauma, emotional struggles, and self-medication as factors in her untimely passing.
Daily Mail
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Sophie Nyweide, former child star dead at 24
Former child star, Sophie Nyweide, best known for portraying Michelle Williams' on-screen daughter in the 2009 film Mammoth, has died at age 24. The actress, who appeared in seven movies before the age of 10, passed away on April 14. An online obituary written by her family read: 'Sophie was a kind and trusting girl. Often this left her open to being taken advantage of by others. She wrote and drew voraciously, and much of this art depicts the depth she had, and it also represents the pain she suffered.' The obituary continued: 'Many of her writings and artwork are roadmaps of her struggles and traumas. 'Even with those roadmaps, diagnoses and her own revelations, those closest to her, plus therapists, law enforcement officers and others who tried to help her, are heartbroken their efforts couldn't save her from her fate.' Nyweide's loved ones revealed she 'self-medicated to deal with all the trauma and shame she held inside' and that 'resulted in her death.' They said: 'She repeatedly said she would "handle it" on her own and was compelled to reject the treatment that might possibly have saved her life.' In lieu of gifts or flowers, her family have requested that fans make a donation to Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) in Nyweide's name. RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. Nyweide's exact cause of cause of death is unknown, at this time. The young star's obituary highlighted her lifelong passion for acting, which her family said she 'dreamed (more like demanded) to do from a young age, 'without ever knowing her mother was an actor.' The obituary continued: 'She seemed happiest on a movie set, becoming someone else. It was a safe place for her and she relish from the casts and crews who nourished her talent and her well being.' Nyweide booked her first acting gig in the 2006 movie, Bella, and proceeded to get a parts in episodes of Law & Order, And Then Came Love, Margot at the Wedding, and New York City Serenade. Her other credits include Shadows & Lies, Mistakes Were Made, Born Again and What Would You Do. Following her performance in an An Invisible Sign (2010), alongside Jessica Alba, film critic, Jeannette Catsoulis, predicted Nyweide 'should have a glowing future.' Nyweide was born in Burlington, Vermont on July 8, 2000. Her mom is Shelly Gibson known for her roles in Dust to Malibu, St Elsewhere (1982) and All My Children (1970). In a 2010 interview, Gibson recalled her daughter's love for film coming from watching movies at the Village Picture Shows Cinema in Manchester and watching Nancy Meyers's Something's Gotta Give, at age four. Gibson said: 'She grew up in this movie theater and slept in the movie theater and had a little bed in the projection booth and watched many movies.' Over the weekend, Gibson shared pictures of her daughter, alongside a heartfelt tribute. Gibson wrote: 'RIP, my Sophie. She graced us for far too short a time. My daughter was a light for all who met her. For those us of who were truly close with Sophie, we are gutted and will need a long time to get over her passing. I know I never will. God I love my daughter. I want her back. Fly high sweetheart - you always could.' Underneath Gibson's post, fans left condolence messages and offered their support. One person wrote: 'Shelly. No words. I am devastatingly sorry for your loss. Much much much love.' Another added: 'Holding you in my thoughts, you've been on my mind all week. I can't imagine. Sending you as much peace now as I can and even more moving forward.'
Newsweek
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Sophie Nyweide: Possible Cause of Death of 'Noah' Star Revealed
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Sophie Nyweide, the former child actress known for her roles in films such as Mammoth, Noah, and An Invisible Sign, has died at the age of 24. Her family confirmed her death on April 14, 2025, through an obituary published on Nyweide, who began acting at the age of 6, left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry with a brief but impactful career that spanned nearly a decade. While the obituary did not specify an official cause of death, it stated that Nyweide "self-medicated to deal with all the trauma and shame she held inside, and it resulted in her death." Born in Burlington, Vermont, in July 2000, Nyweide's early life was characterized by a mix of creative pursuits and athletic endeavors. She was a competitive snowboarder by age 5, inspired by her older brother, and spent much of her time between Vermont and New York City. Acting became her passion at a young age, with her first major role in Bella at just 6 years old. What Did Sophie Nyweide's Family Say? In a heartfelt obituary, Nyweide's family described her as "a kind and trusting girl," qualities that they said left her vulnerable to being taken advantage of by others. Sophie Nyweide during a press conference for the competition movie "Mammoth" at the Berlinale in Berlin, Germany, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009. Sophie Nyweide during a press conference for the competition movie "Mammoth" at the Berlinale in Berlin, Germany, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009. Hermann J. Knippertz/AP Photo They wrote, "She wrote and drew voraciously and much of this art depicts the depth she had and it also represents the pain she suffered. Many of her writings and artwork are roadmaps of her struggles and traumas." Despite these insights, the family noted that even with the support of therapists, law enforcement officers, and others, they were "heartbroken their efforts couldn't save her from her fate." They also shared that Nyweide "repeatedly said she would 'handle it' on her own and was compelled to reject the treatment that might possibly have saved her life." In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requested donations be made in her name to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), the largest anti-sexual violence organization in the United States. Sophie Nyweide's Most Known Roles Nyweide's career spanned from 2006 to 2015, during which she appeared in 12 films and television projects. Her debut came in the independent film Bella, which won the People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. She later featured in Margot at the Wedding alongside Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Jason Leigh, and in And Then Came Love. One of her most recognized roles was in Lukas Moodysson's Mammoth (2009), where she played the daughter of characters portrayed by Gael García Bernal and Michelle Williams. She also appeared in An Invisible Sign (2010), starring Jessica Alba, and Noah (2014), the Darren Aronofsky-directed biblical epic headlined by Russell Crowe and Jennifer Connelly. Nyweide's last credited appearance came in 2015 on the reality series What Would You Do?, marking the end of her on-screen career. Despite her retreat from acting, the obituary noted that she seemed "happiest on a movie set, becoming someone else," a space where she felt safe and nurtured by the cast and crew around her.
