A female California lawmaker who made headlines for fighting against sexual misconduct in the state Capitol has now been accused of such misconduct herself. The woman was an important figure in the #MeToo movement, a social media trend through which victims of sexual harassment and assault can demonstrate how widespread these problems are. The movement has been groundbreaking in its ability to shed light on the once-taboo topic of sexual misconduct – especially sexual harassment in the workplace. The news stories have mostly focused on women victims, but it is important to note that sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape although much less frequent, can happen to both men and women.
Female Lawmaker May Face Criminal Charges
The man accusing the prominent female lawmaker of misconduct claims that she drunkenly approached him at a softball game and touched him in an unwelcome sexual way in 2014. The man did not report the incident immediately because he feared the backlash from accusing a powerful woman of sexual assault. This January, the male staffer told his former boss about the incident and an investigation began. He is not alone in his accusations. Another man who works as a lobbyist has also accused the lawmaker of sexual misconduct. The woman accused of the inappropriate touching is denying the accusations. “I can also say I have zero recollection of engaging in inappropriate behavior and such behavior is inconsistent with my values,” she said in a statement.
Men Can Be Victims of Sexual Assault Too
Even former bodyguards are at risk of being victimized by sexual assault. Actor Terry Crews has recently been speaking out about the sexual violence he experienced in 2016. He is now filing a lawsuit against his attacker, and the incident in question is also reportedly being considered for a potential criminal charge. Studies show that about one out of every six men in the U.S. have experienced some form of sexual assault of some kind in their lifetime. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 16 percent of males are sexually victimized before they reach adulthood.
Contact Us for Help
Sexual harassment and assault are unacceptable regardless of what gender the accuser is and what gender the perpetrator is. Many victims of sexual harassment hesitate reporting the abuse because they fear retaliation, however, there are legal statutes in place to prevent this. If you have been affected by sexual harassment in the workplace contact the dedicated Illinois sexual harassment attorneys at Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC at 630-665-7300.
Sources:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2018/02/09/california-lawmaker-behind-metoo-push-is-accused-of-groping-male-staffer/
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/terry-crews-revelation-sheds-light-black-male-sexual-victimization-n810096
