AFTER #METOO - THE IMPORTANCE OF CHANGING HUMAN BEHAVIOR

Taking action which exacerbates the problem is not productive. For example, have you heard that new workplace rules could ban handshakes or touching of any kind? Some companies are even recommending no more one-on-one meetings with women behind closed doors, lunches, or mentoring.

We do not believe this type of extreme action is helpful or realistic. We have also heard that some men have decided to limit their interactions with women or to avoid them all together.  In an online report in Mississippi Today, by Larrison Campbell dated July 15, 2019, Rep. Robert Foster and former Supreme Court Chief Justice Bill Waller, Jr have stated that they would not be alone with a woman not their wives, even if in a professional context, citing “common sense” and the Billy Graham Rule. The late evangelist allegedly stated “that a man cannot be alone with a women to whom he is not married, including in a professional context.”  

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These “protective” positions are counter-productive and harmful to the social and professional growth of women working in male dominated environments. More importantly, these measures and statements only underscore the lack of understanding of the problem of sexual harassment and what is needed to eliminate bad behavior.

What about making an effort to understand what constitutes sexual harassment and committing not to engage in such behavior going forward? What about encouraging employees to no longer tolerate such behavior as bystanders and teaching them how to intervene or report if necessary?

To all men - we need your help and commitment to change human behavior and the culture of sexual harassment. To the companies we work for - we need transparency and more focus on the human elements of behavior. Only then will you hold yourselves accountable to #changetheculture to a more healthy and prosperous environment, free from #abuse and workplacesexualharassment.

#TimesUp. Let’s #playniceatwork. For more on this and related topics, check out Play Nice - Playground Rules for Respect in the Workplace, and join us at the www.thesandboxseries.com.