Inappropriate, sexually harassing behavior cuts across every industry and facet of our society. No matter a person’s age, weight, religion, sexual orientation, race, social status, or position of power, no one is insulated from this behavior. It is pervasive.

Enough.

We have endured, witnessed, or worked with people who have experienced some form of degrading behavior by those with power in our workplaces. They have groped us and touched us without our consent. They have made inappropriate comments about our bodies and our abilities. Insults and gross innuendo, frequently disguised as jokes, have undermined our professional positions and capabilities. They have made promises, or threats, about our jobs in exchange for our compliance, or our silence. They have leveraged their power and positions to treat us however they would like.

On October 17, 2017 a group of women leaders in politics in the state of California signed on to an op-ed with the goal of addressing systemic harassment in the workplace, and pledging not to tolerate perpetrators or their enablers. The LA Times ran it, along with this story.

The time has come for us to come together, to speak up and to share their stories. The time has come to listen and to act as strong allies by speaking out against harassment in all its forms.

If you see - or experience - inappropriate behavior, don’t sweep it under the rug. Speak up, speak loud, and know there is a community of people who will support you. Let’s work on the solution together.