Don Lemon on Child Abuse: ‘This Sh*t Needs to Stop’

Journalist Don Lemon recently shared a deeply emotional reflection on his experience as a survivor of child sexual abuse. In a powerful video posted to Instagram, Lemon expressed his gratitude to former NFL star Tim Tebow for speaking out about the prevalence of child abuse and the types of individuals who perpetrate it.

Tim Tebow’s Call to Action

The conversation was sparked by a resurfaced interview where Tim Tebow discussed his foundation’s work against human trafficking and child exploitation. Tebow highlighted statistics about who harms children the most, noting that biological fathers are the most frequent offenders, but also pointed to middle-aged Caucasian men as significant perpetrators. He urged men to be protectors rather than abusers.

Tebow stated, “The number one offender type is biological fathers. But by far it is being done by middle-aged Caucasian men. Many, over half of them college graduates, it’s time we call them out.” He emphasized the need for men to step up and be defenders of families, not sources of harm.

Lemon’s Emotional Response

Hearing Tebow’s words clearly resonated with Lemon, who became visibly emotional, fighting back tears. He shared his thoughts in a video, directly thanking Tebow and questioning why the issue of child abuse has become politicized, especially in the wake of new information surfacing about Jeffrey Epstein.

“Thank you, Tim Tebow. Tim Tebow is right,” Lemon stated. He then directed strong criticism at conservative media and those who label him a “race baiter,” asking if they would apply the same labels to Tebow for his statements. Lemon expressed frustration that his own efforts to highlight these issues are often dismissed.

The Epstein Revelations and Double Standards

Lemon’s monologue coincided with the release of more emails from Jeffrey Epstein’s correspondence, including accusations involving President Trump and underage victims. He pointed to what he sees as a double standard in how the political right addresses these issues, particularly when the perpetrators don’t fit their preconceived notions of who an abuser is.

“My only agenda is that as a survivor and this s–t needs to stop,” Lemon declared. He argued that the profile of abusers often includes educated, employed, seemingly stable white men, including those in suburban communities, who don’t align with the right wing’s typical targets like immigrants or LGBTQ+ individuals. He feels this selective focus allows abusers to be protected.

A Survivor’s Perspective

Lemon, who detailed his own childhood sexual abuse in his 2011 memoir “Transparent,” has long spoken about abusers coming in “all shapes and sizes.” His passionate stance is rooted in his personal experience, and he remains unwavering in his commitment to exposing and stopping the abuse of children, regardless of who is involved or who tries to protect them.