This weekend saw it learned that Andrew Kreisberg, co-creator and executive producer of The Flash, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow and Arrow, had been suspended by Warner Bros. over allegations of sexual harassment.
Now Supergirl actress Melissa Benoist and Arrow actress Emily Bett Rickards have taken to social media to respond.
Melissa Benoist offers up in a tweet:
I am a woman who leads a show that supports equality and feminism, empowerment, and fighting for what is right. I have always tried to conduct myself this way personally, as well. Sadly, the show and my career are a part of an industry that doesn’t always mirror these sentiments. This is heartbreaking, and at times makes me feel helpless. I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. But I’m an optimist. I believe lasting change is possible, and when people are mistreated, they should have a safe forum to speak their truth and always be heard. And when people commit crimes or harass others they should always be held accountable–no matter what industry they work in or how much power they wield. I’ve spoken up about it in the past – publicly and not so publicly – and I’ll continue to do so. All of us should, without fear or shame. So this week, I’ll head back to work on Supergirl even more committed to being a prat of changing the norm by listening when people speak up, and refusing to accept an environment that is anything less than a safe, respectful and collaborative space.
Emily Bett Rickards also takes to Twitter:
To the men who committed harassment, who perpetuated rape culture, who turn a “blind eye,” and complain about “reverse sexism”: you are wak and complicit. To the women who found the strengh to speak up. To the women who supported one another and to the women finding their voice: You can. You are heroines.
— Melissa Benoist (@MelissaBenoist) November 13, 2017
— Emily Bett Rickards (@EmilyBett) November 13, 2017