COMBS LOSES 18 BRANDS AS SEXUAL ABUSE ALLEGATIONS MOUNT
Sean Combs is facing multiple lawsuits for sexual abuse and violence from women, including singer Cassie Ventura. He also stepped down as the chairman of Revolt. This has caused a backlash for his new e-commerce site Empower Global, which showcases Black-owned businesses.
Rolling Stone reports that 18 brands have cut ties with the site, citing their support for the victims and their values of respect and empowerment for women. They also condemn Combs' behavior as unacceptable and intolerable.
Empower Global was launched in July with much fanfare by Combs, who invested over $20 million in it. He said it was his way of fighting for inclusion and empowerment for his people. However, some brands say they joined the site because of its former CEO, Khadijah Robinson, who left in February. She was the founder of the Nile List, a similar platform that Combs bought in 2021. Some brands also complain about the site's poor performance.