The Cleveland Browns continue to feel headwind and incomprehension after the controversial trade of Deshaun Watson. Fans are also making a statement: The Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (CRCC) has reported an exorbitant increase in donations since the trade.

Munich – The trade of Deshaun Watson continues to cause discontent in Cleveland.

The Browns have already had to take a lot of criticism on social media for signing the quarterback, and now the people in the city are also making a statement.

The Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (CRCC) has reported an exorbitant increase in donations since the trade. The organisation supports survivors of rape and sexual abuse and aims to promote healing and prevention and to work for social change.

“Every donation sends a clear message “

“We understand that the story of Deshaun Watson is upsetting for many of our friends and neighbours. For those who need additional support, the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center is available 24/7/365,” a statement from the org said. “To the community, we say: We see you. We hear your outrage. We feel it, too. Every click. Every post and every tweet. Every donation sends a clear message.”

There have been quite a few of those, over 1,650 to be exact since the trade. Plus emotional messages, especially from Browns fans as well. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network also reported an increase in online donations after the Watson trade became public. Specifically, ten times as many as on a normal day.

“We’ve had survivors saying, ‘I’m a lifelong Browns fan, my family are Browns fans, but I’m also a survivor and I’m absolutely outraged by the decision,'” Donisha Greene, at “CRCC” director of community engagement, told Crain’s. “They said, ‘I’ll donate the cost of a season ticket or here’s $22 for the 22 women whose voices will be silenced.'”

Browns fans feel torn

Browns fans would feel torn, she pointed out. “They feel like if I can hang out with you guys for years and go down with you guys in numerous losing seasons, this is the moment I have to take a stand. That’s a big deal. “

There are currently 22 civil sexual harassment lawsuits still pending against Watson, no charges have been filed against the playmaker. Because of the criticism and the numerous negative reactions, the team owners had recently addressed the fans with a statement. The Browns have signed the playmaker to a new five-year contract. This has a total volume of 230 million US dollars and is fully guaranteed.