When the #MeToo movement hit the scene, it received support from people all over the world. Many not only felt compelled to tell their own stories of on-the-job harassment, but to help others recognize and stop harassing behaviors when they occur. Surprisingly, plenty of people realized they had been victims of sexual harassment only after reading #MeToo stories.
Although many industries were impacted by #MeToo, the journalism profession was hit particularly hard. At the same time journalists were reporting unacceptable behaviors by top-level players in other fields, they were forced to recognize problems in their own industry. Many leaders of publications were named as sexual harassers, including some household names beloved by audiences.
In an effort to help change a culture that allows aggressors and harassers to get away with improper behavior, two women with publishing roots created #UsToo training. Their intended goal is to help all industry professionals identify and correct sexual harassment at its earliest stages.
What is Different About #UsToo Training?
Sexual harassment training has been a key part of human resources departmental onboarding for years. Some companies even touch upon the subject during annual trainings and meetings. However, the #UsToo philosophy is that talking about the legalities of sexual harassment does not necessarily change habits. While it is fitting for employees to know the legalities of sexual harassment, including what the law defines as harassing behavior, they also need to understand the difference between acceptable and unacceptable language and actions.
In this way, #UsToo training is chipping away little by little at the choices people make without necessarily thinking. By highlighting issues, such as why certain talk may be deemed harassment on the job or how male workers can help their female colleagues who are being harassed, #UsToo opens doors to stronger communication and more in-depth conversations surrounding issues of harassment.
How #UsToo Helps Companies
Legal definitions of harassment are important. However, knowing how to do the right thing at all times is just as important as understanding statutes and regulations, which is why #UsToo provides a compelling opportunity for workplaces to move past the #MeToo era. Ideally, companies will use #MeToo and #UsToo as training tools to recognize harassing behavior. Not only will this be better for employers as a whole, but it will help younger workers learn how to treat each other with respect and regard.
Montgomery County Sexual Harassment Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Fight for Victims of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Although it can be tough to take a stand, employees who have been sexually harassed deserve to be heard. If you experienced sexual harassment while at work, talk to a Montgomery County sexual harassment lawyer at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Call us at 215-569-1999 or fill out an online form to set up a free consultation today. Located in Philadelphia, we represent sexual harassment victims throughout Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, northeast Philadelphia, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County.
