Content Warning: This Emily Ratajkowski article discusses sexual assault, and rape. If you or someone you know are affected by the following story, you are not alone. To speak to someone, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
In a powerful essay for New York magazine about reclaiming her own image, Emily Ratajkowski alleges that she’s a victim of assault.
Writing “I have learned that my image, my reflection, is not my own,” Ratajowski recounts several instances where control of her image was forcibly taken away from her by various parties.
The model recalls one instance where a pararazzo brought a lawsuit against her for using a photo he took of her on her own Instagram Story.
Ratajkowski also doesn’t shy away from the infamous 4Chan leak, where private photos of several female celebrities were leaked online including Ratajkowski’s, writing “Pictures meant only for a person who loved me and with whom I’d felt safe—photos taken out of trust and intimacy—were now being manically shared and discussed on online forums and rated ‘hot’ or ‘not.’”
But the most intense part of Emily Ratajkowski’s powerful essay is where she accuses photographer Jonathan Leder, who is known for photographing women nude or in lingerie, of sexual assault following a 2012 photoshoot.
I've been resisting speaking publicly on the recently released photos by Jonathan Leder to avoid giving him publicity. But I've had enough
— Emily Ratajkowski (@emrata) November 30, 2016
The model writes how she was sent to Leder’s house by her agent for the photoshoot, where she recalls Leder making unflattering comments about her body before giving her wine that left her “very, very drunk.”
It ultimately culminates in an alleged sexual encounter that took place without Ratajkowski’s consent.
She made him stop, writing “I didn’t say a word. He stood up abruptly and scurried silently into the darkness up the stairs.”
Years after the alleged incident, the photos taken from that photoshoot were published in a book by Leder, which as objected by Ratajkowski.
Emily Ratajkowski’s essay is intense and powerful in equal measure, and you can read it right here.
In response to these allegations, a representative for Leder issued a statement to Page Six denying Ratajkowski’s claims.
“We are all deeply disturbed to read Ms. Ratajkowski’s latest (false) statements to NY Mag in her never-ending search for press and publicity,” the representative said.
“Of course Mr. Leder totally denies her outrageous allegations of being ‘assaulted.’ It is grotesque and sad that she is so vindictive to lie in such a way to the press routinely.”
If you or somebody you care for needs help or information about depression, suicide, anxiety, or mental health issues, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
