Has @MarkHalperin atoned for his #abuse and #sexualharassment in the #mediaworkplace? The 75 Democratic strategists who are helping Halperin to rehabilitate his career, including the publisher, think so. NBC, MSNBC, CNN and ABC have all stated that Halperin will not be welcome to promote his book.
What do you think the 🔑 to forgiveness is for Halperin? 🤔
Proper atonement‼️His original statement of apology to the media was lacking. 😡 He apologized but continued: “some of the allegations that have been made against me are not true,” making his apology vague and calling some of his accusers liars. 😤An apology should acknowledge personal responsibility and avoid denials or minimizing. Admitting to the behavior and apologizing directly to his accusers by name is a good first start.
Having ‘admonished’ him publicly is not enough either. In the eyes of many, he must properly atone and redeem himself. How? First, he should admit his behavior publicly and apologize to his accusers and reference them by name. Emphasize that they are not liars and do so without qualification. 😠 He must understand after proper counseling what constitutes ‘unwanted physical contact’ and why his behavior constituted sexual harassment and was destructive to his victims. He should show real remorse and share what he is doing to rehabilitate himself. Communicate that he is facing the consequences and is learning from his mistakes. 🔑 Given his notoriety he should commit to tell his story and educate others what behavior is not acceptable. His words will have impact.
Finally, he could then ask for forgiveness, although he should not expect to be forgiven for a long while. Halperin - remember what damage you caused to the women you harassed. 😤They will be living with the trauma for the rest of their lives. Your words of sincere apology and commitment to educate others will set your victims on a good path of recovery. Proper redemption will be tough but the road to redemption might make you a better person. Forgiveness simply because of passage of time is assuredly not sufficient.
You must hold yourself 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.