By Abigail Connolly

As a $50 million defamation lawsuit trial unfolds before the world, it is time to consider the way domestic abuse is viewed and handled. 

Famed actor, Johnny Depp (“Edward Scissorhands”) is currently engaged in a fierce legal battle with his ex-wife, Amber Heard (“Aquaman”). The battle is in relation to an opinion piece Heard wrote in the Washington Post which stated that she had been a victim of domestic violence and abuse at the hands of Depp. 

This week, it has been nearly impossible to open Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or other social media outlets and not see something about the trial. Fans are posting quotes from the trials, making statements on where they stand and just generally stirring buzz up about the trial. 

The concerning aspect of this trial is that it is not occuring to bring justice to domestic violence. Additionally, how many other domestic abuse cases are being heard that are not getting media coverage? How many victims are not receiving support? 

While it is understandable that many people are following along with and monitoring this case, which involves a big name celebrity, it is concerning to think that the only reason many people are paying attention to the impacts of abuse are because of fame. 

50% of domestic violence incidents go unreported. 50% of people who experience domestic violence, which is estimated to be 10 million Americans annually, do not receive any sort of support or justice. For these facts to exist while so many people now claim to be fierce advocates against domestic abuse, it is necessary to recognize that there is a larger issue and simply not enough support or resources for victims of domestic violence. 

The billion dollar, big name trial — which is not even directly a domestic abuse trial — is shedding light on the horrors and multifaceted impacts domestic violence has on the victims, friends and family members of both abusers and victims alike. The outrage and disgust being felt by fans of both Depp and Heard should be fuel for the support of anti-abuse organizations and resources for victims. 

Regardless of feelings toward the case, it is time to let go of the facade that domestic and relationship violence is a thing of the past, it is time to offer real support and resources to those who are suffering. 

Photo via Flickr