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Jussie Smollett Speaks Out After Brutal Attack: 'Justice Will Be Served'
"Let me start by saying that I’m OK."
Jussie Smollett has broken his silence on Tuesday's brutal alleged attack when ski-masked strangers beat him, yelled homophobic and racist slurs at him, and tied a noose around his neck.
Smollett gave a statement exclusively to ESSENCE.
"Let me start by saying that I’m OK. My body is strong but my soul is stronger. More importantly, I want to say thank you. The outpouring of love and support from my village has meant more than I will ever be able to truly put into words.
I am working with authorities and have been 100% factual and consistent on every level. Despite my frustrations and deep concern with certain inaccuracies and misrepresentations that have been spread, I still believe that justice will be served.
As my family stated, these types of cowardly attacks are happening to my sisters, brothers and non-gender conforming siblings daily. I am not and should not be looked upon as an isolated incident. We will talk soon and I will address all details of this horrific incident, but I need a moment to process. Most importantly, during times of trauma, grief and pain, there is still a responsibility to lead with love. It’s all I know. And that can’t be kicked out of me.
With Love, respect & honor…Jussie."
Smollett's family released a statement echoing the sentiment, declaring "Jussie is a warrior whose light cannot be dimmed." Wednesday evening, Chicago PD released surveillance photos of Smollett's alleged attackers. The FBI is also investigating the alleged death threats Smollett received in the mail the days leading up to the assault. For more, detailed coverage on this story, follow The Advocate.
Taylor Henderson is a PRIDE.com contributor. This proud Texas Bama studied Media Production/Studies and Sociology at The University of Texas at Austin, where he developed his passions for pop culture, writing, and videography. He's absolutely obsessed with Beyoncé, mangoes, and cheesy YA novels that allow him to vicariously experience the teen years he spent in the closet. He's also writing one!
Taylor Henderson is a PRIDE.com contributor. This proud Texas Bama studied Media Production/Studies and Sociology at The University of Texas at Austin, where he developed his passions for pop culture, writing, and videography. He's absolutely obsessed with Beyoncé, mangoes, and cheesy YA novels that allow him to vicariously experience the teen years he spent in the closet. He's also writing one!
