Christina Ricci Stunned By Political Influence

20 November 2008

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Actress Christina Ricci was stunned when she spoke to U.S. politicians as an activist for rape victims - because she never expected her celebrity status would get them to listen.

The 28-year-old became an activist for Tori Amos-founded organisation Rainn (The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) after the sexually-charged marketing campaign for her film Black Snake Moan launched in 2006.

But Ricci admits she was reluctant to speak up, fearing she would just embarrass herself.

When I was invited to speak to members of Congress I was like, 'Uh, are you sure? I might say something stupid.'

She says, "When I was invited to speak to members of Congress I was like, 'Uh, are you sure? I might say something stupid.' "To me, Washington D.C. always seemed like a place you could never get into.

But it's surprisingly accessible. You can actually talk to the people who govern and write legislation - and they responded."

And Ricci has continued her fight, urging celebrities and civilians to make more of an effort by donating more than their cash.

She adds, "In the beginning a lot of my support was just financial - I think it's important that a certain percentage of everything you make goes to charity, any charity. But you should also give your time - you can pick your corner of the world and give it your time.".

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