Legal Proceedings Continue as Diddy’s Defense Challenges Witness Credibility
On Thursday, the legal team representing Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to resume their cross-examination of a woman who has accused the music mogul of violent misconduct. The witness alleges that Combs once violently threw her over the railing of a high-rise balcony during a fit of rage. The defense aims to undermine her credibility by portraying her as an unreliable source, suggesting she has a history of drug abuse and that her account may be fabricated. The proceedings are expected to start later than usual on Day 17 of the federal sex-trafficking trial in New York, with court sessions beginning around 11 a.m. local time.
Testimony Highlights and Allegations
Earlier in the week, Bryana “Bana” Bongolan recounted her experience of staying overnight at the residence of Combs’s former partner, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura. She claims that Combs stormed into the home and assaulted her on the balcony, resulting in physical injuries such as cuts and bruises, as well as lasting psychological trauma. Ventura, who has emerged as a key witness for the prosecution, previously described her tumultuous 11-year relationship with Combs, characterized by physical abuse, constant surveillance by his staff, and coercion into sexual acts with male escorts for his gratification.
Additional Witnesses and Defense Strategies
Another woman, who wishes to remain anonymous under the pseudonym Jane, is expected to testify later this week. She alleges that Combs engaged in group sexual activities he referred to as “freak-offs,” which she claims involved abuse. The defense contends that both Ventura and Jane participated willingly in these encounters, asserting that their relationships with Combs were consensual, albeit unconventional and toxic. Combs has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation for prostitution. If convicted on all counts, he faces a potential life sentence.
Betty Who’s Historic White House Performance and Changing Political Climate
In 2023, Australian singer Betty Who made history by performing at the White House, a milestone in her 11-year music career. Invited by then-President Joe Biden, she performed on the White House lawn decorated with rainbow motifs during a Pride celebration. Dressed in a cherry-red tailored pantsuit and sporting a distinctive bowl cut, she delivered energetic synth-pop anthems centered on themes of self-acceptance, love, and resilience. She shared a warm handshake with President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, marking a significant moment of recognition for LGBTQ+ artists.
Now, as she embarks on her latest tour, the political landscape has shifted. The current administration has adopted a more conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues, implementing policies that restrict transgender rights, limit gender-affirming healthcare, and ban drag performances in venues like the Kennedy Center. Betty Who describes her White House experience as “a surreal memory,” reflecting on how much has changed since then. Speaking via Zoom from Los Angeles, she expressed her disbelief at the regression, emphasizing the importance of Pride as a form of resistance and celebration.
Celebrating Pride Amid Political Challenges
This year, Betty Who is returning to Washington, D.C., for Pride festivities that look markedly different from those in 2023. While the White House and corporate sponsors have distanced themselves from Pride celebrations, the city’s streets are alive with vibrant colors and festivities, hosting the global LGBTQ+ event, WorldPride, throughout May and June. Betty Who is scheduled to perform at two major events: a Friday appearance at RFK Stadium as part of the WorldPride Music Festival alongside artists like Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, and Marina, and a headline show at the 9:30 Club on Saturday evening.
Tour Focused on Celebrating Pride
Unlike traditional album-driven tours, Betty Who’s “Out of the Darkness” tour is designed to maximize participation in Pride festivals across the country. She has made it a point to perform at every Pride event she can, with her schedule in 2023 including three Pride shows each weekend throughout June and July. She describes her annual Pride season as a personal ritual of emergence, where she “comes out of hibernation” on May 31st, ready to celebrate with her community and wave her Pride flag high.
From Humble Beginnings to LGBTQ+ Icon
Although she can’t recall her very first Pride concert, Betty Who’s connection to the LGBTQ+ community has been a defining aspect of her career from the start. Her early performances, such as a sold-out show in a small Lower East Side venue, marked her initial steps into a community that embraced her. As a young Berklee College of Music student, she was surprised to find that her audience was predominantly gay men, which she found both unexpected and inspiring. She recalls thinking, “This is where I belong. This is my dream.”
Evolution of Artistic Expression and Personal Growth
As a bisexual and queer artist, Betty Who’s music often celebrates individuality and self-love. Her signature style includes nostalgic ’80s-inspired ballads and lively, guitar-driven electronic anthems that encourage fans to sing and dance along. Recently, she released a new single, “Sweat,” which marks a departure from her usual sound-more sensual, atmospheric, and club-ready. She admits that releasing such a bold track was intimidating, but she follows her instincts: “If it makes me laugh or go ‘whoa,’ I know I need to pursue it.”
Looking Ahead: Pride as a Platform for Change
Reflecting on her journey, Betty Who hopes that in the coming years, more queer artists will find their way back into spaces like the White House and other prominent venues. For now, she’s proud to contribute to a Pride season that balances celebration with activism. Her music aims to remind listeners that perseverance and self-acceptance are powerful tools in overcoming adversity. As she puts it, “Pride is fundamentally about celebrating who you are, no matter the obstacles.”
Upcoming performances include the WorldPride Music Festival at RFK Stadium on June 6 ($119) and her headlining show at the 9:30 Club on June 7 at 10 p.m. ($57). For more information, visit worldpride25.com and 930.com.
