People can say anything they want, it doesn't make it true. You are allowing yourself to be manipulated into responding. You don't have to do that. And the method of response you've chosen is likely just going to cause you more pain.

I think it's excellent to write down how you feel, with a goal to venting, increasing your own understanding, finding closure. Sharing what you write with others with regard to a controversial subject is merely inviting disaster and conflict. Do you really want that?

These people have hurt you with their words. In addition, they've hurt you with words that are not true. So why not just allow their words to not be true? They can't define who you are, unless you let them. And they don't get to decide what truth is for you. I totally would not submit your article for publication. If you do, then they have gotten the better of you.