Backstage Assault: A Dark Reality in the Entertainment Industry

The backstage of a concert or performance is a world away from the glitz and glamour that audiences see on stage. It's a realm of hard work, dedication, and often, intense pressure. Unfortunately, this pressure can sometimes boil over into violence, with backstage assault being a far too common occurrence.

The Prevalence of Backstage Assault

The extent of backstage assault in the entertainment industry is alarming. According to a 2018 study by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), 68% of female entertainment workers had experienced sexual harassment, and 40% had been the victims of physical violence.

These figures are even higher for transgender and non-binary individuals. A 2019 survey by GLAAD found that 70% of transgender and non-binary performers reported experiencing sexual harassment, and 44% had experienced physical violence.

The Impact of Backstage Assault

The impact of backstage assault on its victims is devastating. It can lead to physical injuries, emotional trauma, and lost work opportunities. In many cases, victims are hesitant to report their experiences due to fear of retaliation or further victimization.

"I was terrified," said one victim who spoke to RAINN. "I didn't know what to do and I didn't want to make a big deal about it. I just wanted to get out of there."

The Causes of Backstage Assault

There are many factors that contribute to the high rate of backstage assault in the entertainment industry. These include:

• Excessive alcohol and drug use: Alcohol and drugs can impair judgment and lower inhibitions, increasing the risk of assault.
• Power imbalances: The entertainment industry is rife with power imbalances, with some individuals having more influence and control than others. This can create an environment where abuse is more likely to occur.
• Lack of training and accountability: Many entertainment venues and production companies lack adequate training and accountability measures to prevent and address backstage assault.

Preventing Backstage Assault

Preventing backstage assault requires a multi-pronged approach that involves:

• Educating and training staff: Staff members should be educated on the issue of backstage assault, and trained on how to prevent and respond to it.
• Creating a culture of respect: Production companies and venues must create a culture of respect and zero tolerance for violence. This should include clear policies and procedures for reporting and addressing assault.
• Encouraging victims to report: Victims of backstage assault should be encouraged to report their experiences to the appropriate authorities. This can be a difficult step, but it is essential for holding perpetrators accountable and preventing future incidents.

Conclusion

Backstage assault is a serious problem that has no place in the entertainment industry. It has devastating consequences for its victims, and it undermines the integrity and safety of the industry as a whole. By working together, we can create a culture of respect and zero tolerance for violence, and ensure that everyone in the entertainment industry feels safe and valued.

Additional Resources

• RAINN: https://www.rainn.org/
• GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/
• Backstage Assault Prevention: https://www.backstageassaultprevention.org/