The “Me Too” Movement took internet by storm in 2018 when women from all over the world started coming forward and talked about how they’ve been harassed, molested and abused by sexual predators. It was a wake up call for everyone and people realised how women have suffered for centuries, irrespective of age.
Harassment at work has been in the limelight for quite sometime now. People have come forward about their abuser’s exploitation at work place. Companies should try to create a safe work space for everyone. They are equally responsible for their employee’s individual rights. Employees should feel safe when they want to come forward and talk about a sensitive issue.
Here are certain things that should be kept in mind.
1.ANYONE CAN BE A VICTIM.
It’s high time we give up the notion that only women can be sexually abused. Men also face this. Nobody likes to be inappropriately touched or groped. Nobody wants to feel intimidated by an abuser. Come forward and talk. Be vocal about what you went through. It is important for the victim to voice his/her case. The matter will be looked into and a thorough investigation will be launched. Companies should aim at establishing grounds of equality for everyone, irrespective of gender and sexual orientation.
2.INVESTIGATE.
There is nothing more wrong in the world than violating a person’s chastity without consent. But, it is also a fact that sometimes people take advantage of it and lodge a false complaint to ruin someone’s reputation. The allegation of a rapist can be extremely harrowing for an innocent man/woman. It’ll ruin their image in front of the entire world. They might end up losing everything. So, it is important to get the facts straight before accusing someone of harassment. The company will also be at jeopardy if an abuser isn’t punished or if an abuser walks free.
3.LEARN HOW TO BEHAVE PROPERLY.
You can also make someone uncomfortable by lewd remarks and nasty stares. Don’t make inappropriate jokes that can make someone feel violated. Don’t stare at someone inappropriately.Learn how to make your work place a healthy and safe environment for everyone. Practise good morals and respect your coworkers.
4.LISTEN.
It has often been observed that managers tend to overlook harassment complaints by the victims. Don’t take advantage of your position. Sexual abuse can deteriorate mental health and ruin self confidence.All they need in those moments is for someone who’ll hear them out. Be considerate and empathetic towards them. Companies should believe in equality and prosperity so that everyone feels heard.
5.RAISE AWARENESS.
Being silent can kill a person mentally. The strain of sexual abuse can be too much to handle. Arrange campaigns and raise awareness among the employees. It is important for everyone to learn and respect each other and maintain chivalry inside or outside of the work place. Conduct seminars and enlighten everyone about the harassment issue. They should know that they’re not alone in this. They should feel safe and secure when they want to come forward. Nobody has the right to judge or look down upon a victim. Learn to support each other even in trying times. Any company should be a firm believer of their employee’s individuality and security.
At the end of the day, you can only hope to create the world a better place for every estranged soul out there, trying to fight their battles all by themselves.
The Silent Observer. 