Following TMZ’s interior elevator security footage leak of Ray Rice’s domestic assault on his then-fiance-now-wife Janay, the Ravens running back was released by the team and suspended indefinitely by the NFL yesterday afternoon. Many have questioned whether or not the footage will put an end to Rice’s professional football career, as well as end the employment of those who failed to conduct a thorough investigation – intentionally or otherwise – and adequately punish him for the reprehensible act.
We had yet to hear publicly from Rice or his wife since the tape leaked, but Janay broke her silence Tuesday morning with an official statement to the public. It’s probably not what you expected.
“I woke up this morning feeling like I had a horrible nightmare, feeling like I’m mourning the death of my closest friend,” Janay Rice wrote. “But to have to accept the fact that it’s reality is a nightmare in itself. No one knows the pain that hte media & unwanted options from the public has caused my family. To make us relive a moment in our lives that we regret every day is a horrible thing. To take something away from the man I love that he has worked his ass of for all his life just to gain ratings is horrific.
“THIS IS OUR LIFE! What don’t you all get. If your intentions were to hurt us, embarrass us, make us feel alone, take all happiness away, you’ve succeeded on so many levels. Just know we will continue to grow & show the world what real love is! Ravensnation we love you!”
Assuming that truly is how she feels about the situation, Janay has continued to stick by Ray’s side through this entire ordeal, defending his actions all the way through. I won’t pretend to know or understand what it’s like to be in an abusive relationship but – from the outside looking in – that’s almost as sad and gut-wrenching as the violent act itself.
