Recently, every day has brought a new allegation of sexual harassment or misconduct. These stories are emerging across the broadest possible spectrum of American society, and no institution—private or public, liberal or conservative, secular or religious—can afford to ignore the challenges this moment brings, nor the opportunity that it presents.All too often, allegations of harassment or misconduct were either ignored or they were minimized. Indeed, in too many cases, the accuser would bear the brunt of the scrutiny.
The recent tidal wave of allegations—and the #MeToo movement that has accompanied it—represent a powerful opportunity to change this dynamic. But we need to stay focused on the big picture.
Even as we rightly seek the truth and—where appropriate, justice—for individual acts of abuse, we must also cast an unflinchingly critical eye on the cultures and systems that have allowed such abuse to flourish.
Just as organizations across the country have made incredible strides in preventing child sexual abuse, we can also play a leading role in dismantling the cultural norms that allow inappropriate—and sometimes predatory—behavior among adults to go unchallenged.
In the months and years to come, Redwoods is committed to helping make this transition happen in the communities and across the movements we serve. Through our products, our services, our relationships and our own behavior, we’ll be seeking leverage points that can help to turn "Me Too" into "Not Here".
We are honored to walk with you on this important journey.
