Connect with us

We Speak Entertainment

Russell Simmons Resigns Following Second Sexual Assault Allegation From Screenwriter Jenny Lumet, Russell Simmons Responds

Published

8 years ago

on

Russell-Simmons_Jenny_Lumet

Jenny Lumet says she and Russell Simmons knew each other for years, before the assault. Take a look at her story below:

You had a car and a driver that evening. Sometime later, you offered me a ride to my home. I said, “Sure.” During the making of the RUN DMC movie, I had been in vans with you and other crew members. I don’t recall having accepted a ride home alone with you before that night.

At no time that night did I say: “Russell, I will go home with you,” or “Come home with me,” or “I will have sex with you” or “I have the desire to have sex with you.”

I believe it was an SUV, because I recall having to step up into the car. I don’t know about makes or models. I think the driver was already in the car.

I got into the car with you. The driver began to drive. I assumed you knew where I lived, because you had sent me 250 balloons, but I gave the driver my address on 19th Street and 2nd Avenue.

You said to the driver: “No.”

I didn’t understand, so I said: “Russell?”

I said, again, to the driver: “19th Street.”

Again you said to the driver: “No.”

Then the car doors locked. It was loud. The noise made me jump.

I didn’t recognize you at that moment. It was disorienting. It was disorienting. I say it twice now because you said “No” twice then.

I couldn’t open the doors. I couldn’t open the windows. The car was moving. The driver did not stop. He did not take me to 19th Street. He took me to your apartment.

I didn’t try to kick the windows out. I didn’t punch or kick. I didn’t say, “What are you doing?” My voice left me after the second “No.”

I felt dread and disorientation. I wanted to go home. I said I wanted to go home. I didn’t recognize the man next to me. I didn’t know if the situation would turn violent. I remember thinking that I must be crazy. I remember hoping that the Russell I knew would return any moment.

The car stopped at the curb. I don’t recall the street. I recall the driver opening the door from the outside, and you behind me. I was between the two of you. Not wedged, just in the space between you. I remember exchanging a look with the driver. He was unreadable. It was chilly out. It was me and these two men.

I felt dread. I was tremulous. Off my feet. I felt an intense need to keep both of you calm. Was there a time or a space to run? I have no idea. Would somebody else have run? I have no idea. There were two men. One of whom obeyed the other. It was an overwhelming feeling.

There was no well-lit lobby or doorman at the entrance we used. I would guess it was not the main entrance to the building. I believe there was a door from street level that opened into a space beneath the residential area of the building, in which there was a small back elevator. If I am wrong about the layout, then I am wrong. There were two men, and I was afraid.

You didn’t punch me, drag me or verbally threaten me. You used your size to maneuver me, quickly, into the elevator. I said, “Wait. Wait.” I felt dread. I was very, very sad. I didn’t know if the driver was a further threat, or an ally. I was both relieved and terrified when he did not get into the elevator. Alone in the elevator, you pressed me into the corner with your body, your hands and your mouth.

The elevator did not stop on the way up to your apartment. I was moved very quickly inside. I recall hearing the apartment door closing behind us.

I saw no one else. I recall you were behind me. I was still hoping the Russell I knew would reappear, as I could not recognize the man moving me deeper into the apartment — the man who had said “No” to his driver. Twice.

You moved me into a bedroom. I said, “Wait.” You said nothing.

I made the trade in my mind. I thought, “Just keep him calm, and you’ll get home.” Maybe another person would have thought differently, or not made the trade.

No wonder Rusell said Terry Crews should’ve given his violator a pass. This is so disgusting and disappointing.

Russell Simmons responds:

I have been informed with great anguish of Jenny Lumet’s recollection about our night together in 1991. I know Jenny and her family and have seen her several times over the years since the evening she described. While her memory of that evening is very different from mine, it is now clear to me that her feelings of fear and intimidation are real. While I have never been violent, I have been thoughtless and insensitive in some of my relationships over many decades and I sincerely and humbly apologize.

This is a time of great transition. The voices of the voiceless, those who have been hurt or shamed, deserve and need to be heard. As the corridors of power inevitably make way for a new generation, I don’t want to be a distraction so I am removing myself from the businesses that I founded. The companies will now be run by a new and diverse generation of extraordinary executives who are moving the culture and consciousness forward. I will convert the studio for yogic science into a not-for-profit center of learning and healing. As for me, I will step aside and commit myself to continuing my personal growth, spiritual learning and above all to listening.”

Via BScott

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

We Speak Entertainment

We Dream In Color Humanitarian and Unity Celebration Hosted By Chief Dr. Quinton de’Alexander Featuring Irene Michaels July 19th, 2025 

Published

3 days ago

on

June 24, 2025

By

In a world increasingly fractured by hate and division, the 2025 We Dream In Color Humanitarian and Unity Celebration emerges as a radiant call for healing, inclusion, and peace. Now in its 13th year, the celebration—hosted by acclaimed fashion designer and global humanitarian Chief Dr. Quinton de’Alexander—has become a sanctuary for survivors, visionaries, and changemakers. This year’s theme, “A Call for Unity,” reflects a growing urgency to mend broken spirits and uplift communities through compassion, creativity, and action.

With a legacy of honoring unsung heroes and fostering global connection, the event will be held at the historic DuSable Museum of African American History, promising a night of powerful performances, heartfelt recognition, and transformative purpose. Among the evening’s highlights is the rare and prestigious ICON Award, which will be presented to multitalented entertainer and humanitarian Irene Michaels, only the second recipient in the foundation’s history.

From fashion to philanthropy, and from Liberia to Chicago, We Dream In Color stands as proof that when we lead with love and walk in unity, the world begins to heal—one vibrant dream at a time.

This year’s We Dream in Color Celebration is shaping up to be truly special. What inspired the theme for 2025’s event?

The theme this year is “A Call For Unity” We’re living in a world that falling apart through hate like never before. As I travel globally. It saddens me to see the hate people are displaying openly with no remorse. As I’m discovering and witnessing adults today in my own circle bickering. I want to find a way to peace to brighten some very sad and broken souls. So they can begin healing within first. Then love on others openly with kindness. My ‘We Dream In Color’ Humanitarian and Unity Celebration has a way of bringing joy on a night of celebrating life, displaying what humanity looks like through ‘unity and diversity.

The “ICON” Award will be presented to Irene Michaels—what does she represent to you and to the mission of this celebration?

My ‘We Dream In Color’ celebration ‘ICON’ award has only been given out once before in ‘Thirteen’ years. I’ve known Irene many years now. I know her zest for life, her driven spirit and passion to rise above life’s challenges, her love for those who are less fortunate, and most important. Irene’s love for humanity. To me. She’s every woman. When we have the ability to lift people up, we often forget to lift those close to us up. When I thought of presenting my ‘ICON’ award. There was no one more deserving than my dear friend ‘Irene Michaels’. To me, Irene embodies the spirit of my ‘We Dream In Color Foundation’ mission of loving and lifting others up in the midst of life’s storms. Even the enemy who trespass against thee. Where there is forgiveness, there is healing.

How do you go about selecting honorees for the We Dream in Color Foundation? What qualities or contributions stand out most to you?

I’m extremely particular by selecting my honorees. Many of my honoree are survivors who has risen above unexpected challenges they’ve faced. Such as ‘Cancer, Discrimination, and Violence’ to name a few. Many who are overlooked due to lack of prosperity and what’s considered suitable life’s accomplishments, such as an educational degree. Yet, they’re doing the work to lift others many would not do. Each honoree, I’m fully aware f their accomplishments and met them all. Many are selected, few are chosen. I look for honoree who has a real and true passion to heal humanity through actions. Having the receipts to validate their humanitarian efforts. I also look for a special feeling within myself when I’m speaking with them. I must feel the spirit of GOD, love, compassion, and humanity.

What can guests expect from this year’s experience at the DuSable Museum—any surprises or moments you’re especially excited about?

The guests of ‘We Dream In Color’ Humanity and Unity Celebration can expect to feel they’re in a safe and happy place where they belong. A night of powerful and phenomenal entertainment, high quality awards and an night of celebrating life in ‘unity, diversity and peace’. I’m most excited to lift many people up within this year of elevation, in the midst of the dark times we’re living in. Humanitarians will walk in as themselves, but walk out as newly elevated honorary doctors. Gifted by my partners of education. HRH Dr. Clyde Rivers and ‘United Graduate College and Seminary International.  

We Dream in Color is about unity, inclusion, and humanitarian impact. How do you ensure those values are upheld in every aspect of your work—from fashion to philanthropy?

For thirteen years now, I’ve kept up with most of my honorees. Unlike many who presents honorees. We Dream In Color Foundation becomes an extended family. Meaning. If we’re ever needed, we will be there to assist where it’s humanly possible. Having that bond gives us a closer look on the great impact our honorees are continuing to make towards healing humanity. If they ever needed a hand to be lifted up themselves, our hands will be there to carry them along the way whenever they’re feeling low or weak. Assuring them. Their extended ‘We Dream In Color’ family has their backs. Being a fashion designer of ‘Fifty Plus’ years. I’ve come across my ‘victims and survivors’ with broken souls. I’ve created the ‘Encourage Yourself Makeover’. A process that gives ‘women and men’ their power back by returning to taking care of, and putting themselves first. Being a foundation with no financial backing but my desire at this time. I’m utilizing my GOD given talents to get by ‘uplifting, inspiring and empowering’ globally. Doing my part adding into the melting pot to heal humanity.

The name “We Dream in Color” is both poetic and powerful. What does it mean to you personally?

It means ‘Strength’. I’ve had to fight all my light to live my dream alone. People are so afraid to opened doors for others due to their lack of confidence. I’m blessed GOD built me different. He built me with a loving heart made of steel. Meaning. In the darkness of any challenges. I will illuminate with the beauty of color. For it is my color that will shine for those who are feeling weak, overlooked, abandoned or alone’ in this cold, gruel, evil, selfish, unbalance, and dark world. You see. I’ve been there and I’ve discovered the path to living my dream daily in peace. So, when I’m introduced or see the broken spirited, I just want to lift them up and wrap my arms around them. Assuring them GOD loves them, I love them, and they are no lone alone and safe. To GOD be the glory.

Your foundation bridges art, activism, and community. How do you see the role of creative expression in healing and uniting people?

Art is universal. Art has the tendency to make people feel good with it’s beauty. Like fashion. When you look good, you feel good. Sometimes great. When you feel good or great, you love on people more. Family, friends and communities comes together at happy times and places.  Combining ‘art, fashion and community’ together in a happy mental space is the perfect way to start the healing process of humanity.

You’ve built a brand that fuses couture with cause. What first sparked your desire to create a platform that’s both visionary and humanitarian?

Many survivors dealing with various life’s challenges feel left out during the months with recognizable awareness ribbon colors. Such as pink for breast cancer awareness months. I believe I’ve ran across every life’s challenge in my lifetime. I’ve also heard many truths of feeling left out. I decided to create a ribbon incorporating all the colors from the electromagnetic spectrum. Bringing forth a ribbon leaving no survivor behind. Followed by a chart that defines each color. Assuring whatever the challenge one may face, they are not forgotten or left behind.

How has your journey in fashion and design influenced your perspective as a change maker and leader?

Being a designer, you’ve learned or mastered the art of creating beauty by mixing fabrics. That mixing is the perfect example of the beauty that comes when diversity work together in unity. As a leader, it’s our duty and an honor to raise up peace through ‘unity and diversity’. When we teach loving each other equality and in balanced support, and it’s learned and accepted. Healing and peace begins. Trust, it isn’t easy. Praying helps. But I find putting actions over talk, seems to get the people listening globally. When promises are broken constantly, people put their guards up. Once you’ve proven yourself, your word and loyalty. The guard comes down. Where respect is given, so shall it be received. No matter the war. A leader leading the call for ‘unity and peace’ in the end shall prevail.

What has been the most rewarding moment for you since launching the We Dream in Color Foundation?

There have been several. Receiving ‘President Joe Biden’ Lifetime Leadership Awards consecutively. 2023 & 2024. As well as receiving Chieftaincy in ‘2’ countries. Chief Tamba Taylor of Liberia (December 2020) and ‘Aare Atayesa of Akola Ijesa Kingdom’ (December 2024) of Nigeria. Both for my humanitarian efforts I’m making globally through my ‘We Dream In Color Foundation’, and the nickname ‘Talk and Do’ Chief. Because I fulfill the promise I make. Sometimes Instantly.

What are your hopes for the future of We Dream in Color? Are there any upcoming initiatives or collaborations you can share with us?

My plans I can share openly is to establish partnerships with various women empowerment organizations. I partnered with a young lady in Liberia name ‘Abigail David’. After the women feeling safe to come to me as a leader asking for help with their most personal and private moment. Together. Abigail and I established ‘FLOW DAY’. A day of educating young ‘girls and women’ how to properly maintain themselves during this time. After a hygiene education presentation. Feminine products are gifted to all the attendees. As far as upcoming initiatives. In partnership with ‘Dr. Mariann Jordan’ CEO of JP Consulting Group IIL’, I will be launching the ‘Chief Tamba Taylor Entrepreneurship Incubator’ in various Africa countries. Only in poverty areas.

For young people or creatives looking to make a difference, what advice would you give about using their voice and vision for impact?

Become Independent. Depend on yourself first. Them ask other to assist. Learn every aspect of your desired fields. From the task itself, to the computer up to the accounting. This way no one can ever take away you power and business too. Only interact with “actions’ producers with receipts to validate their work, and back up their talk, most important. Respect others time and become a ‘talk and do’ game changer. Last but not least. Always dream BIG and Dream In Color!


The official website for We Dream In Color Humanitarian and Unity Celebration may be found at https://www.wedreamincolor.org

Interview by Eileen Shapiro

Continue Reading

Trending