Alexander Wang, an American fashion designer, has been accused of sexual assault on numerous occasions, and light is just now being brought to these alleged ordeals. 

The scrutiny began on December 11th, when male model Owen Mooney made a series of Tik Toks describing an event in 2017 where he was sexually assaulted by Wang. In the video, he claims that in the hectic, jam-packed New York City club in which he was alone and everyone was incapable of moving, Wang groped him without consent. 

“I saw the video made by Owen Mooney about a week ago. Most of the comments were supportive and comforting but there’s always those comments that think it’s a laughing matter or whatnot,” said Mara Walls (‘22). 

Though, this wasn’t the first allegation. In 2017, a man named Nick Star started a Twitter thread sharing that at a Brooklyn Concert, Wang grabbed him inappropriately. Then again in 2019, American rapper Azealia Banks shared numerous anonymous accounts claiming that Wang groped them. Now in 2020 after Owen Mooney shared his story, eight men and trans women have come out and shared their stories. 

“It’s the case of one person saying it out loud and thus inspiring others with similar stories to come out too. The last thing I’d want is the issue being ignored and creating a bubble that celebrities stay in that makes them feel untouchable,” said Vincent Wibawa (‘21).

Alexander Wang has denied all of the allegations, claiming that they are false. Wang complains that these social media accounts have posted material with no evidence to back them up and that he intends to hold accountable whoever is responsible for starting and spreading these claims. 

“I just hope that this is taken seriously like it would be if it were any other sexual assault case with any other average person. If I’ve noticed one thing it would be that these popular industries, like the fashion industry in this example, have silenced the voices of many people trying to come forward,” said Walls. 

So what now? With companies like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Business of Fashion addressing these allegations, progress is being made. In addition to this, the accusers are currently arranging potential legal action with help from Lisa Bloom, a well-known lawyer. 

Of course, the truth is still out there and we don’t know anything for sure, but it’s important that the long-due attention towards this issue is finally being covered.