It’s honestly so painful to watch this play out, especially when you know the layers behind it. The fact that Trina chose Gabe over her own niece — and is still standing by that decision — is something that hits deep. Ashley was a minor when all of this allegedly happened. A child. And like so many kids in that position, she didn’t speak up back then… because she couldn’t. Because she was silenced, just like so many others are in families that would rather protect reputations than protect victims.
It’s not uncommon. And that’s what makes this even sadder. These situations happen more than people want to admit. And when the truth finally comes out — usually years later — people want to question the timing, not the trauma. They question the victim’s voice, not the abuser’s actions. It’s exhausting. And it’s wrong.
What hurt me most was hearing that Trina said Ashley didn’t “deserve” a platform to speak. Can you imagine how painful that must be? To not only be harmed — but then told by your own family that your story doesn’t matter? That your pain isn’t valid enough to be heard publicly?
It’s clear that Trina is still emotionally tied to Gabe, probably because he helped raise her sons. And I get that. That’s complicated. But it doesn’t excuse turning your back on someone who was hurt — especially your own niece.
And then Tamar… 😢 She revealed she went through similar things in that same family. And nobody stood up for her either. Nobody came to her rescue. That’s a wound that doesn’t heal easily. You can feel the pain in her voice when she talks about it. She’s been carrying it for years — and now it’s repeating itself with Ashley. And Tamar’s trying to do for Ashley what no one did for her: stand beside her and give her space to speak. That’s powerful. That’s real love.
But the silence from the rest of the family? Loud. Too loud.
It’s just sad all the way around. Families are supposed to protect. Families are supposed to listen, even when the truth is uncomfortable. Especially when the truth is uncomfortable. Sweeping things under the rug just causes more damage in the long run.
If anything, I hope this starts a conversation. I hope it encourages more people — especially women, especially survivors — to speak up, even when it’s hard. To stand with each other. To say: “I believe you”, even if no one else does.
Ashley, if you ever see this — your voice matters. Your story matters. And you’re not alone.
