Men must join fight against sexual harassment

Catcalling, the double standards, the pay gap, the harassment, the “jokes.”

Sexual harassment is any unwanted sexual comment, gesture, or advance of an individual of the opposite sex. Of course, this is a cold definition, sexual harassment has so many layers and masks and even though this is no new issue, women are uniting all around the world to bring about more awareness.

You see, as a man, I don’t have to think twice about what I wear, how I say things, what career I would like to pursue, worry when walking to my car at night, or being ashamed. Sadly, the list goes on and on and I do not think men will ever fully understand.

Things seem to have gotten worse lately; the media is full of sexual harassment cases. Countless celebrities and other public figures are stepping forward, recalling horrifying accounts of times powerful men took what they wanted without a second thought.

But its more than just celebrities; this happens everyday and in every sphere of social circles. Women in colleges, jobs, and most other places are blamed when they are violated, harassed, or raped.

“Boys will be boys.” Seems to be the nations mantra.

One of the most powerful ways this is happening is by the #METOO movement. Women from all over the world are banning together to fight against the silence and sweeping under the rug.

Males can never understand but ignorance is not bliss. Silence has a cost, but as a man, I will stand against harassment, against the catcalling, the locker room talk, the grotesque and unfair treatment of women. This is just a start to what men can do. We can stand up with these women, acknowledge their #METOO posts, and work to put an end to all sexual harassment.