The Department of Justice released files related to the late convicted sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein after President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act last month. The act was a response to mounting pressure from lawmakers and advocacy groups seeking greater transparency into Epstein's dealings. The released files have shed new light on Epstein's associates, including business elites, academics, politicians, and world leaders who were connected to him.

According to Tarana Burke, founder of the Me Too movement, the Epstein files are a reminder of the widespread nature of sexual violence in the United States. "The fact that we have to have a transparency act to get information about a convicted sex offender is a testament to the power and influence that these individuals have," Burke said in an interview with Marc Lamont Hill. "It's a reminder that we still have a long way to go in terms of holding these individuals accountable."

The Epstein files have also raised questions about Trump's own involvement with Epstein. Trump has been accused dozens of times of sexual assault and misconduct, and the released files have included photos, emails, and other documents that appear to link him to Epstein. However, Trump has denied any wrongdoing and has maintained that he was simply a friend of Epstein's.

The Me Too movement, which began in 2017, has been credited with bringing attention to the issue of sexual violence and harassment. However, Burke acknowledged that the movement still has a long way to go in terms of achieving real change. "We've made progress, but we still have a lot of work to do," Burke said. "We need to continue to push for policy changes that will help to prevent sexual violence and support survivors."

In addition to the policy changes, Burke emphasized the need for greater accountability for individuals who have been accused of sexual misconduct. "We need to make sure that those who have been accused of sexual misconduct are held accountable," Burke said. "That means that we need to have consequences for those who have been accused, and we need to make sure that they are not able to use their power and influence to avoid accountability."

Ghislaine Maxwell, a longtime associate of Epstein's, is the only person to have been criminally convicted in connection with Epstein's sex trafficking operation. Maxwell was convicted of conspiracy and sex trafficking charges in 2021 and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence.

The release of the Epstein files has also sparked renewed calls for greater transparency and accountability in the wake of the MeToo movement. Advocacy groups and lawmakers have called for greater scrutiny of Trump's associates and for policy changes that would help to prevent sexual violence and support survivors.

As the country continues to grapple with the issue of sexual violence, Burke emphasized the need for continued action and advocacy. "We need to continue to push for change and to hold those in power accountable," Burke said. "We need to make sure that we are creating a society that is safe and just for all people."