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STAR of the Month: Cosby saga stuns Etana
May 07, 2018
Like most people, Etana was in disbelief when she heard of the rape and assault charges that were being brought against beloved family-oriented actor Bill Cosby.
"I grow up on Bill Cosby. When he said it out of his mouth I checked to see if he was drunk or a talk little tipsy or if he was going through something but no. I kinda stop following at that moment...I was done," Etana said.
Last month, Cosby was found guilty of three counts of aggravated indecent assault. He's facing 10 years for each charge. He was released on US$1 million bail and instructed to remain within his home until sentencing.
According to the singer, Although the 81 year-old actor faces a long stretch behind bars, there are really no winners in the end.
THE PAIN
"I know that it probably wont change anything for the women, because dem summen deh no really go way , no matter how many charges were laid against him. It doesn't take away the pain that the women went through. The only pay-off for them is like 'I am suffering and now you are suffering too', but it doesn't take away anything at all so I'm not sure where is the win in it," she said.
Cosby was charged with violating Temple University employee Andrea Constand at his suburban Philadelphia home in 2004. Dozens of women have come forward in recent years to say he drugged and assaulted them. Five of the other accusers testified against him at the retrial which resulted in the guilty verdict.
Etana told The STAR that there are similar stories to that of Bill Cosby in Jamaica, but many victims suffer in silence. "Part of the reason that people don't talk about it is because they are embarrassed or believe no one will believe. There are times when the older people will encourage the younger ones to keep it under hush, because they have been through it and survived and think that the other person will be OK too. Just kiinda shut you mouth and move along, but I believe it is the younger ones who are going to make the change because they are more outspoken," Etana said.
