#MeToo Strikes At America's Core

"Sexual harassment" is a two-word combination that can rarely be left out when describing the daily work experience in the life of most women in the United States. This 1960s mindset, like many other forms of discrimination, unfortunately was not left in the past. The proof of it sits across the nation: starting with media newsrooms, leading up to Hollywood studios and even the White House.

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, "It is unlawful to harass a person (an applicant or employee) because of that person's sex. Harassment can include "sexual harassment" or unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature." This simple law asks people to treat everyone with respect and keep their hands to themselves. However, for many people (mostly men) this is asking for too much. 

During a recent visit to campus Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, who delivered the "State of The Dream Address" in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 50th birthday, broached the subject of sexual harassment head, too. While reminiscing about King, Dyson was able to show a connection between oppression and sexual harassment. He invited men to keep their hands to themselves, their mouths in-check and their minds clear. 

While some men are calling women too sensitive or petty, the reality we live in differs. Women are right and the #MeToo movement is real. It's about time the powerful men of America stop abusing those beneath their status. It is doubtful that anyone would want their mother, sister, daughter or wife to experience sexual harassment at place of employment; however, it is also doubtful that those thoughts go through the mind of a man as he "accidentally" touches his female co-worker's leg and calls her sexy behind closed doors. 

Sexual harassment, just like racism, is a sickness slowly but surely decreasing the quality of life in America and deflating the "American Dream" bubble. To cure this disease, however, we don't need to look for another Dr. King. We need only look in the mirror and ask ourselves to treat women how they deserve to be treated. Equal.

Editorial by Augustinas Navickas