Ashanti's sister Shia Douglas claimed to have experienced domestic abuse, and Ashanti shared a story supporting her sister and raising awareness about domestic violence. Ashanti's mother, Jennifer Ashanti Jackson, was found guilty of abuse and neglect of a dependent causing serious bodily injury, aggravated assault, and domestic battery. In an interview, Ashanti's sister Shia spoke about intimate partner abuse.

Ashanti claims she was sexually harassed by a producer who demanded she shower with him in exchange for finishing her album, sparking the #MeToo movement with her story.