There are two words that have rocked the world in recent months and no, they are not ‘Kardashian pregnancy’.
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The ‘Me Too’ movement started in about October, 2017 using a hashtag on social media by victims of sexual assault and harassment.
It was an empowering move to name and shame those responsible but to also give girls a voice, to encourage them to break their silence in order to stop this behaviour.
And the response was overwhelming.
The entertainment industry turned from a perceived life of glitz and glamour to a deep and dark secret being exposed about what really happens behind the scenes on set.
Not only did numerous high profile celebrities come out to say they had been victims but people most of know put their hands up to say #MeToo.
It was astounding to think those we live and work near were keeping this secret.
Some of the incidents happened recently but some were decades ago, meaning these women were harbouring this for years.
The only thing sadder than this happening to a woman is her feeling like she cannot talk about it.
Most of these incidents happened when the victims were underage or children and were committed by men.
The intention here is not to male bash, women are just as capable of such behaviour and we acknowledge that.
Anyone in a position of power that uses that to coerce someone into doing something against their will should simply not hold that position.
Fame and wealth do not give someone the right to act in such a manner.
The workplace is usually somewhere we take pride in what we do, have formed firm friendships or are working in our favoured career.
It’s not somewhere women, or men, should live in fear of harassment or bullying.
And it’s definitely not a breeding ground for predators.
Telling a story so personal takes immense courage but it is also empowering to those around you in similar situations.
Hearing more and more of these cases makes it acceptable to talk about it and that’s how we ensure this behaviour is eradicated.
We are forming a community of people who are more aware and are admitting they will not tolerate this type of behaviour.
All because brave women said “me too.”