APOLOGIZING FOR SEXUAL HARASSMENT? CHECK OUT TOM REED’S APOLOGY‼️

Rep. Tom Reed (R-N.Y.) announced Sunday that he will not be running for any elected office in 2022 (including to challenge NY Governor Cuomo) after allegations surfaced that he sexually harassed a former lobbyist (now Army second lieutenant), Nicolette Davis, several years ago. This after Reed himself called for Cuomo to be impeached for the sexual harassment allegations leveled against him, stating in February “These incidents of sexual harassment and pattern of abuse are abhorrent and have absolutely no place in our society, let alone the highest rungs of government. Such behavior is disturbing and unacceptable.” Reed has a record of actively supporting women’s rights. 

In a story published by The Washington Post, Davis claims Reed “rubbed her back and thigh and unhooked her bra at an Irish bar in Minnesota while she was working as a lobbyist for an insurance company.” When he placed his hand on her thigh with upward motion, she asked a colleague for help and Reed was escorted out of the restaurant.

Contrary to Cuomo’s initial progressive “non-apologies” and continued denial, defense and refusal to own up to his actions, Reed’s apology on Sunday (which followed an initial denial a few days prior) is direct, sincere and on point: “First, I apologize to Nicolette Davis. Even though I am only hearing of this matter as stated by Ms. Davis in the article now, I hear her voice and will not dismiss her. In reflection, my personal depiction of this event is irrelevant. Simply put, my behavior caused her pain, showed her disrespect and was unprofessional. I was wrong, I am sorry, and I take full responsibility. I further apologize to my wife and kids, my family, the people of the 23rd District, my colleagues, and those who have supported me for the harm this caused them.

Second, I want to share that this occurred at a time in my life in which I was struggling. Upon entering treatment in 2017, I recognized that I am powerless over alcohol. I am now approaching four years of that personal lifelong journey of recovery. With the support of my wife, kids and loved ones, professional help, and trust in a higher power, I continue that journey day-by-day. This is in no way an excuse for anything I’ve done. Consistent with my recovery, I publicly take ownership of my past actions, offer this amends and humbly apologize again to Ms. Davis, my wife and kids, loved ones, and to all of you. Third, I plan to dedicate my time and attention to making amends for my past actions. In addition to apologizing to those I have impacted, including Ms. Davis, I will be seeking to help those wrestling with addiction in any way I can. To others who may be struggling the way I have, please know that by seeking help your life will be forever changed in an extremely positive way. Though the journey is hard please know the rewards are amazing and you are worth it.

As I go forward, I will strive to be a better human being, continue to fight for what I believe in, and to make people’s lives better in any way I can. I hope this formal apology is just the start.”

According to reports, Davis has accepted Reed’s apology stating: “I am grateful for Congressman Reed’s reflection on his actions. I accept his apology. I hope that his words and actions will be an example for others who face similar allegations.”

Cuomo should take notes. Read our take on how he should have responded from the very beginning to his accusers in our blogs. It will be interesting to see what the continued fallout, if any, will be for Reed following his apology as compared to the "apology" from Cuomo. His “non-apology” opened a door for other accusers to come forward and share their experiences—we believe, in part, to educate Cuomo and the general public, that he has engaged in a pattern of misconduct that he should publically acknowledge and recon with. 

We applaud Reed’s apology. Hopefully he is sincere and will follow through on his commitments. 

For more on this subject, visit us at www.thesandboxseries.com and check out our new book “Play Nice - Playground Rules for Respect in the Workplace.”