Lecture on Workplace Sexual Harassment

Introduction

• Personal anecdote about requesting a promotion and facing harassment.
• Workplace sexual harassment is described as an epidemic.
• Sexual harassment affects women of all backgrounds and professions.
• It's about power, not sex.

Personal Stories & Examples

• Joyce: Flight attendant supervisor harassed by boss.
• Joanne: Wall Street banker demeaned by male colleagues.
• Elizabeth: Army officer harassed by male subordinates.

Statistics and Impact

• 1 in 3 women have been sexually harassed at work.
• 71% of incidents are unreported due to fear of being labeled or fired.
• Reporting harassment can be career-ending.

Personal Experience

• Harassed by high-ranking TV executive and publicist early in career.
• Experiences affected self-confidence and career trajectory.
• Covered Anita Hill hearings and later experienced workplace harassment as a journalist.

Cultural Context

• Harvey Weinstein scandal highlighted persistent issues.
• Myths about sexual harassment persist (e.g., women bring it on themselves).
• Women want safe and harassment-free work environments.

Solutions

1. Bystanders to Allies: Encourage bystanders to intervene and support victims.

   • Harvard Business Review identifies "bystander effect."
   • Call to men and women to become allies.

2. Change the Laws: Address forced arbitration clauses in employment contracts.

   • These clauses prevent open jury processes and favor employers.
   • Advocacy for legislative change on Capitol Hill.

3. Be Fierce: Build self-confidence and speak up.

   • Empower future generations to fight harassment.
   • Personal story about daughter's courage inspired by the speaker.

Conclusion

• Historical moment for addressing sexual harassment.
• Call for companies to rehire women whose careers were affected.
• Encouragement for women to stand up, speak out, and be fierce.