Credited from: BBC
In a powerful demonstration of resilience, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's sexual abuse gathered on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, urging lawmakers to compel the release of all unclassified documents related to the disgraced financier. "This is about ending secrecy wherever abuse of power takes root," stated Anouska De Georgiou, one of the survivors sharing her harrowing experiences. She, alongside fellow victims, emphasized the need for accountability and transparency from the Trump administration regarding the allegations of sexual exploitation by Epstein and his associates, including Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence for her role in trafficking minors. This rally coincided with efforts from a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), who have introduced the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which would mandate the release of all unclassified records held by the Justice Department, including crucial information about Epstein's activities and network, according to The Hill, ABC News, and Al Jazeera.
Despite the potential for greater accountability, survivors like Lisa Phillips stated they feel the legal and political systems have long failed them. A significant focus of the press conference was the assertion that the files released by Congress thus far contained little new, substantive information, with claims that over 97 percent of recently released documents were already public knowledge, as reported by The Hill and TRT Global. Meanwhile, GOP leadership has sought to present a different narrative, promoting their own resolution supporting ongoing investigations rather than backing Massie and Khanna's push for transparency.
The spotlight on this issue is further complicated by President Trump's position. Referring to the file release and the pressure from victims, Trump dismissed these concerns as part of a "Democrat hoax," reinforcing skepticism among his supporters who feel the investigation is being deliberately obstructed. Trump's prior association with Epstein has also drawn attention, causing speculation about his potential involvement in any undisclosed contents of the Epstein files, according to Newsweek and Reuters.
As discussions continue, the survivors have begun compiling their own list of associates connected to Epstein, asserting their determination to seek justice independently, as highlighted by BBC and Business Insider. They are adamant that true transparency is the only avenue for justice, making it clear that they will no longer rely solely on government actions to hold powerful individuals accountable.