Drea Kelly has sparked reactions after she stated that domestic violence is treated differently depending on the victim within the Black community. The ex-wife of R. Kelly believes that Cassie Ventura received more support than others when she accused Sean “Diddy” Combs of abuse throughout their relationship. In a recent interview, Drea acknowledged that social media reveals who the Black community chooses to rally behind. She even mentioned Kim Porter and Keke Palmer, noting they did not receive nearly the attention they deserved.
RELATED: Cassie Pops Out With First Message On Social Media Since Testifying Against Diddy & Welcoming Baby #3
Drea Kelly Says Domestic Violence Support In The Black Community Isn’t Equal!
Cassie Ventura testified against Diddy in May, detailing years of abuse and violent attacks. Now, Drea Kelly asserts that more people rallied behind Cassie than other celebrity victims of domestic violence, including herself. It is worth noting that Drea was married to R. Kelly for 13 years and later accused him of physical abuse during their relationship.
Drea emphasized that social media has made it clear who the Black community chooses to support, and she believes colorism plays a significant role.
“So we need to start being real as a community. We pick and choose who we want to celebrate and advocate for, based even upon the way that they look,” Drea stated.
Drea also believes that those who offer support may get caught up in the persona of the person accused of domestic abuse but will never truly know them as their partners do. Nevertheless, Drea made it clear that she thinks Cassie deserves celebration and recognition — but people also need to acknowledge that other victims of color did not receive the same support. “We need to take [colorism] out of it and educate ourselves, because that blew my mind,” Drea continued.
Social Media Weighs In On Drea Kelly Calling Out Colorism In Domestic Violence Support
Roomies in The Shade Room’s comment section largely agreed with Drea, although some pointed out that Cassie endured years of pain and still faces backlash for speaking out.
Instagram user @staceyangelapproved_tv wrote, “Colorism is very real.”
Instagram user @tink_tbw wrote, “Huh?! Ppl still attack Cassie and doubt her to this day . Cassie was doubted by many even after the vid came out.”
While Instagram user @pretty_brown_round_ wrote, “People ignored Cassie’s abuse for almost 2 decades…………”
Then, Instagram user @colormebabs wrote, “There is validity in what she is saying.
Another Instagram user, @pr3ttyfacekeyes wrote, “We owe all women who have been publicly abused by men famous or not!”
Instagram user @_jasmine.2__ wrote, “You ain’t wrong queen.”
While another Instagram user @damnnnthats.maj wrote, “Ya do pick and choose who ya wanna decide who’s a victim of domestic violence !! Look at Hallie and ddg!”
Then, another Instagram user @wonderfulnblessed wrote, “She makes a valid and powerful point. The truth always hurts or bothers those who are in denial!”
Finally, Instagram user @shareseaa wrote, “Nobody believed Cassie until that video came out so they treated her the same way.”
Cassie’s Lawyer Speaks Out After Diddy Receives 4-Year Prison Sentence
The last update from Cassie came when Diddy was sentenced to four years in prison on Oct. 3. Her lawyer, Douglas Wigdor, emphasized that even with the verdict, nothing can erase the trauma she experienced. Additionally, he commended Cassie for demonstrating bravery and strength throughout the trial.
“We are confident that with the support of her family and friends, Ms. Ventura will continue to heal knowing that her bravery and fortitude have inspired so many,” Wigdor stated in a press release.
RELATED: UPDATE: Cassie’s Lawyer Releases Statement Following Diddy Being Sentenced To Four Years
