The fashion world, often glorified for its beauty and creativity, can sometimes harbor dark secrets. During a 2002 photo shoot, former model Alwantha Lawson claims that photographer Marc Baptiste sexually assaulted her. In a recent turn of events, Lawson has now filed a lawsuit against Baptiste, as evidenced by a subpoena dated March 15, 2024.
A rising star and a dream opportunity
Alwantha Lawson career was on an upward trend. After gracing the pages of magazines such as Essence, Time Out and Seventeen, her modeling career was on the rise. A chance to collaborate with Marc Baptiste, a photographer known for his work with celebrities like Aaliyah And Erykah Badu, was a much-desired step forward. Baptiste’s reputation extended beyond the music industry, with campaigns for major brands such as Original Penguin, Reebok Classic and Rolex cementing his status in the industry.
The lawsuit details Lawson’s excitement over the shoot for Baptiste’s book “Intimate: Nudes by Marc Baptiste.” However, the events that followed, as detailed in the legal complaint, paint a very different picture than the expected career milestone.
A broken promise and a disturbing encounter
The former model claims that when she arrived at Baptiste’s Manhattan studio for the shoot on October 3, 2002, she was surprised to find him alone. Court documents allege she was assured there would be others present during the nude shoot, including hair and makeup stylists. However, upon arrival, she says Baptiste locked the door and asked to undress completely.
The lawsuit details Lawson’s discomfort and discomfort at being left alone with Baptiste. Her initial excitement reportedly turned to concern, as stated in the filing: “I’m not going to shoot until you make yourself cum,” Baptiste allegedly told Lawson, pressuring her to engage in self-gratification on camera.
A traumatic experience and a hesitant silence
The lawsuit further details a disturbing escalation of the encounter, during which Baptiste allegedly subjected Lawson to unwanted sexual contact. The details described in the court documents are graphic and deeply personal. Lawson says he felt confused and violated and states in the lawsuit: “I couldn’t believe what he did. I’ve shot with so many other photographers before, and no one took it upon themselves to violate me in that way.”
After the alleged assault, Lawson’s life spiraled, according to the lawsuit. “Life had no meaning anymore” she said. “My career had no meaning anymore.” The lawsuit claims she felt “completely confused and confused”, as she struggled to come to terms with the trauma she had endured.
A missed opportunity for justice and the burden of shame
Lawson’s boyfriend reportedly encouraged her to report the assault to police. The lawsuit states that she tried to go to the police station but ultimately did not report the incident due to pressure from her officer. Instead, she chose to confront Baptiste directly, writing a letter detailing the incident and asking for a signed apology and the return of all photos and videos taken during the shoot.
The lawsuit claims Baptiste’s wife received the certified mail while he was in Africa. However, instead of the apology Lawson sought, she claims Baptiste retaliated and allegedly banned her from the industry by portraying her as “difficult” work with. Years later, in 2006, Lawson finally filed a police report, but nothing came of it, according to the lawsuit.
In search of justice and healing after years of silence
The legal action, filed under New York City’s Gender-Motivated Violence Act, seeks unspecified damages for the emotional and psychological distress, physical injuries and lost opportunities Lawson claims he suffered as a result of the alleged attack. The filing details the lasting impact of the event, citing Lawson “Still feels the emotional impact of the alleged attack two decades later and also has nightmares, cold sweats and triggers.”
“Even to this day I don’t feel comfortable being in front of cameras unless I have to.Lawson said in a statement. The lawsuit poignantly describes how the alleged attack continues to impact her life: “And when she sees someone wearing glasses that look like Baptiste’s or when she walks past his studio in Chinatown‘those feelings come back.” Lawson’s lawsuit isn’t just about seeking financial compensation; it’s about seeking justice and finding closure.
Alwantha Lawson’s lawyer, Susan Crumiller, emphasized the importance of New York’s “Adult Survivors Act” to her client’s lawsuit. “We told you before that you couldn’t do anything, but now you can” said Crumiller, emphasizing the law’s ability to take legal action against previous attacks. Although he did not specify the damages sought, Crumiller referred to “multi-million dollar awards” as a possible outcome, recognizing the potential for reduction under New York law. This lawsuit underscores the law’s potential impact on past cases and ongoing efforts to reform damages award practices.
Featured image: New York Post
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