After posting her statement on Sammy Guevara's inappropriate joke on social media, Sasha Banks discussed why she will no longer provide further comment on it.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Banks explained, "As you can see on social media, I left my comment out there, I made my statement." She added, "I don't feel like I need to touch upon it any more than I did." Banks then went on to state why she felt it was important that she responded the way she did, "as a role model, I have to lead by example. I can't show hate with hate. I only can show through education, dignity, and integrity."
Her words echoed the online statement she released on Twitter several weeks ago in response to a 2016 video that resurfaced of AEW star Guevara making an inappropriate rape joke aimed at the female wrestler. His comment led to suspension without pay and his salary being donated.
Banks explained wanting to show both strength and vulnerability to the young girls and women who look up to her. She stated, "For me, being a role model and a leader is what I have to give back to the universe. It's not easy to be so exposed and so open and so raw, but I'm here to show people that I'm a real person, too." She continue, "I am just lucky and fortunate enough to be living my dream in front of millions of people. If that connects with people, if that resonates, all I can do is be myself." She concluded by stating that she hopes to "show people that no matter what they go through–whether it's good, bad, or hard–we're all in this together."
If you are a U.S.-based victim of sexual assault or misconduct in need of help, contact RAINN at 800-656-4673 to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area. If you are based outside the U.S., click here for a list of international sexual assault resources.