Aces’ Justine Pissott Opens Up About Her Sexual Assault in Candid Revelation amid ‘Cornell 7’ Uproar

**Justine Pissott Speaks Out on Sexual Assault Amid Cornell Fraternity Case**

In a poignant message shared via her Instagram Stories, Justine Pissott, a player for the Las Vegas Aces, has candidly revealed her experience as a survivor of sexual assault. Her disclosure comes amidst unsettling news surrounding a civil lawsuit filed against several members of a fraternity at Cornell University, accused of gang rape.

The 22-year-old athlete expressed her distress over the headlines relating to the alleged assault involving the fraternity, identified as the “Cornell 7.” Pissott conveyed that witnessing these events unfold has been emotionally challenging for her. “This is a vulnerable message but something I want to share,” she wrote, addressing her followers directly.

Pissott’s account drew from her own traumatic experiences, as she recounted being drugged and raped. She noted that the impact of such incidents lingers long after the initial assault, stating, “When something like this happens to you, it doesn’t just end when that night ends. You carry it with you.” The psychological burden of confusion, self-blame, and the struggle to comprehend the violation can persist for years, making recovery a complicated journey.

The Aces guard also highlighted societal tendencies to scrutinise the behaviour of survivors, particularly concerning why they may not report assaults immediately or how they react following the trauma. “Asking why they didn’t speak sooner, why they stayed quiet, why they acted a certain way afterward,” Pissott lamented, emphasising that those who have not experienced such trauma can never truly grasp its profound effects on a person.

Undoubtedly aware of the stigma faced by survivors, she remarked, “There is no ‘right’ way to respond to something that should’ve never happened to you in the first place.” Her empathy extended to the unidentified woman at the centre of the Cornell case, for whom she expressed heartfelt concerns. Pissott hoped the victim finds strength during challenging moments and reminded her that the assault does not define her identity.

Importantly, Pissott clarified her motivations for sharing her experience, stating that it was not for sympathy but to foster connection. “I know how lonely this kind of pain can feel,” she wrote. She encouraged others who may be suffering similar trauma to know that they are not alone. The essence of her message was one of solidarity, aiming to uplift fellow survivors.

The allegations against the fraternity arise from a civil lawsuit filed on September 16 by a former student, referred to as Jane Doe, asserting that she was drugged and sexually assaulted over a prolonged period at the fraternity. According to the complaint, the incident was reported to campus police three weeks later, highlighting the complexities many survivors face in coming forward.

Pissott concluded her reflective post by urging society to create an environment where survivors feel safe and empowered to share their stories without fear of judgement. She expressed a wish for a future where people can speak freely about their experiences and break the silence that often surrounds such incidents.

For anyone affected by sexual assault, help is available. The National Sexual Assault Hotline offers confidential support at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) and further resources can be found at rainn.org.