#RealTalk is part of an ongoing column for the WiB blog in conjunction with our discussion sessions in real life where we take a look at different topics in hopes of shining a light on prevalent issues in marginalized communities.
The MeToo Movement was founded in 2006 by Tarana Burke, an American Activist. In 2017, the movement became international after actress Alyssa Milano posted a tweet regarding producer Harvey Weinstein’s cases of sexual assault. The main objective of the #MeToo Movement is to create a safe community for survivors of sexual abuse and to raise awareness while emphasising how sexual abuse is still a prevalent issue. In this article, we will explore what has changed after 16 years since the MeToo Movement was founded, and what issues still remain unsolved.
One of the most successful accomplishments of this movement is the community that it has created. As this movement encouraged more survivors to speak out it has improved the awareness concerning sexual assault which still exists in the modern-day. In addition, this movement allowed survivors of sexual abuse to know that they are not alone.
This movement also allowed us to recognise the power and influence social media has. The awareness achieved through social media allowed the public to stand up for their rights and pressure people of power and governments to enact more policies in order to achieve greater equality. In the United States, different states introduced greater protection laws for workers, while banning the non-disclosure agreements- which previously allowed wealthy individuals to create a legal contract in order to prevent the victims from seeking support.
Although the Movement has achieved remarkable changes, this may still just be the starting point! The Movement has indeed changed the culture surrounding sexual harassment by making us more aware and businesses more cautious. However, this awareness and open dialogue concerning sexual abuse must persist until a change is made in either policies or laws. To help encourage greater equality, businesses have a critical role. They can prioritise respectful treatment by ensuring that their mission and organisation values authentically represent what their company stands for. If this statement is clear, it can provide a starting point to how the company culture is cultivated which can greatly influence the treatment employees receive. Managers must also ensure that they educate themselves and provide enough training opportunities to create an environment where employees feel safe to talk about sexual harassment and discrimination- while being aware of the steps they must take when faced with such situations.
Although the above discusses what actions businesses can take to alleviate discrimination, the public has a greater role in preventing sexual assault and promoting equality. Make sure that you are aware of your rights and don’t stay silent when confronted with discrimination!
Further readings and Resources:
https://www.vox.com/identities/2019/10/4/20852639/me-too-movement-sexual-harassment-law-2019#:~:text=Americans have changed how they,learned they were not alone.