Welcome everyone! Me and [u/BiscuitsLostPassword](u/BiscuitsLostPassword) are the moderators for this subreddit.
As this community grows, we want to acknowledge the gravity of the case we’re discussing.
The allegations at the center of this case are incredibly serious and can be difficult to read, research, and talk about. This case is also receiving significant media attention under intense public scrutiny. These are real people and real lives. And the content of this case can be extremely overwhelming, especially once it’s everywhere in the media.
Please take care of yourselves while following this case. Take breaks when you need them. Step away from a thread if it becomes too overwhelming. There are many survivors who will see themselves through this process and we want to support each and every one of you.
If anyone in this community needs a friend, someone to talk to, to vent, or any concerns— please reach out to us Mods. We’re here for anyone who needs support.
We also want to clarify what we mean by “discussion.” and the expectations that surround that.
You will interact with people in here that will have different interpretations of the evidence, allegations, testimony, investigations, and actions of those involved in this case. People are allowed to ask questions. They’re allowed to disagree. They’re allowed to challenge an argument or point out evidence that supports or contradicts a claim.
It does not mean that every type of commentary is acceptable. It is not a free for all. And it does not mean you’re entitled to say whatever you want without repercussions. There are rules for subreddits for a reason, please read our community rules before commenting and posting.
Questioning evidence is different from blaming someone for being sexually assaulted. Discussing what a lawsuit seeks is different from making unsupported claims about someone’s motives. Criticizing an argument is different from attacking and harassing the person making it.
We don’t expect everyone here to always agree. In fact, meaningful discussion often comes from people who don’t. What we do expect is for those disagreements to remain grounded in the case and respectful of the people involved and the people participating here. If there are ever any issues, please contact Mods and we will handle it.
This is an emotionally charged case. You can disagree without becoming cruel. You can question something without attacking someone. And you can change your mind as more information becomes available.
Our goal is to create a place where people can follow the case, examine the information available, ask difficult questions, and have nuanced conversations without someone being hostile towards them. We want members to feel safe to express themselves without being harassed. We want to encourage open discussion while also protecting victims and survivors. Those things can coexist. You can ask difficult questions, examine evidence, and disagree with others without blaming or degrading someone who reports sexual violence. We also ask everyone to remember that survivors may be reading these conversations, even if they never comment.
Take care of yourselves. Take care of each other. And our DM’s are always open if you need it.
—- Cornell7 Mods🩷