Harvey Weinstein is finally receiving the treatment that many in Hollywood deserve. The truth is, sexual assault is an unsaid constant in Hollywood. For years, sexual predators have been praised and awarded with no regard or punishment for their crimes. Unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate conduct and illegal actions have continuously been swept under the rug. Bill Cosby, Roman Polanski, Woody Allen, Bryan Singer, Casey Affleck, Dr. Luke, John Travolta, Marty Weiss, R. Kelly, and the list goes on and on. Hollywood is built on a community of sexual predators, silent enablers and terrified survivors. People’s futures, livelihoods and dreams are threatened if they dare contest to any unwanted sexual demands.

Children are even more at risk. The documentary “An Open Secret” delves into Hollywood’s worst kept secret, the exploitation of child actors, and exposes the horrible cycle of abuse in Hollywood and its most vulnerable members. The people who participate in this abuse are not only exempt from most legal ramifications, but continue to become more rich and powerful. Many of these abusers and sexual predators are able to stay in the business and receive prestigious awards.

Men rule Hollywood, as they do most of the world, and they commonly misuse this power. How can we be a society that protects survivors and prevents crime if we support abusers and predators? Not only do we give these people our money, our support and awards, but we elect them as our president, arguably the highest position in the world. Donald Trump not only admitted but bragged about grabbing and kissing women without their consent in his infamous 2005 video.

The allegations against Weinstein are finally breaking the silence around sexual assault in Hollywood. His expulsion from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences board shows that people in power will no longer support colleagues that decide to abuse their own power. Many celebrities have spoken out and have even come out with their own cases against him. Survivors are often intimidated into not coming forward, but when well established celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie are brave enough to share their stories, it is easier for others to do the same.

I truly hope that this signals the end of turning a blind eye to such a massive problem. We can do our part by not supporting known sexual predators and refusing to be silent. But, there is a limit to our knowledge when it comes issues like this. The problem spans all avenues of production, casting managers, personal agents, producers, directors, actors, etc. So, it is unreasonable to think we can completely avoid supporting these people. The best way we can help is by making sure the people who commit these crimes pay for what they’ve done, which will inspire more survivors to come forward with allegations.and will discourage others from committing the same crimes. This will take time, but we are finally on the right track.