I just finished watching a story on PBS' Now about young women being sexually harassed and even assaulted at their part time jobs. The story starts out a little sensational, but the topic is important so I kept watching.
Anyway I'm glad to hear that this issue is getting investigated more and that some young women are sharing their experiences. I can definitely understand feeling embarrassed, afraid and not having experience with what is and isn't acceptable in a work environment.
In one of my first jobs in college, I had an experience with a guy saying some inappropriate things to me and making me feel uncomfortable. Late one night he cornered me when no one was nearby and started saying some inappropriate things. It was fairly mild, but he had a more superior position than me and it felt intimidating because we were alone in this dark parking lot.
Anyway I'm glad to hear that this issue is getting investigated more and that some young women are sharing their experiences. I can definitely understand feeling embarrassed, afraid and not having experience with what is and isn't acceptable in a work environment.
In one of my first jobs in college, I had an experience with a guy saying some inappropriate things to me and making me feel uncomfortable. Late one night he cornered me when no one was nearby and started saying some inappropriate things. It was fairly mild, but he had a more superior position than me and it felt intimidating because we were alone in this dark parking lot.
Thankfully I was working with a bunch of really awesome, strong women and I immediately rushed to them and told them how creepy he'd made me feel. Turns out he'd been creeping out a bunch of other women too.
Everyone encouraged me to come forward and talk to the bosses. I worked very closely with the people who hired him and felt confident that they'd believe my story and take it seriously.
It wasn't comfortable, but I came forward and reported his behavior. The bosses were pretty receptive, thanked me for coming forward, and as far as I know he wasn't hired again for any further projects. They did try to assure me that he "didn't mean any harm--he just doesn't have a good sense about what's appropriate behavior." Ummm and why would you hire someone with those qualities!?
I'm really glad I reported the incident, and so thankful that I was working with supportive, encouraging women who I could turn to. Hopefully with these new stories and studies about sexual harassment in the workplace other young women will feel comfortable coming forward.
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