MeToo movement

Can You Hear Me Now? -MeToo (39787332552)

MeToo logo

Tarana Burke from She's Revolutionary

Alyssa Milano 2, 2011

Harvey Weinstein David Shankbone 2010 NYC

US Army SHARP Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Prevention Poster

MeToo Movement

The MeToo Movement is a social movement against sexual harassment and sexual assault. It began to spread virally in October 2017 as a hashtag on social media in an attempt to demonstrate the widespread prevalence of sexual assault and harassment, especially in the workplace. It followed sexual abuse allegations against Harvey Weinstein. The phrase "MeToo" was initially introduced by Tarana Burke, a social activist and community organizer, in 2006 on the Myspace social network to promote "empowerment through empathy" among women of color who have experienced sexual abuse. Actress Alyssa Milano popularized the term in 2017, encouraging victims to share their stories to give a sense of the magnitude of the problem.

Background

The MeToo movement gained prominence in October 2017 when allegations against film producer Harvey Weinstein emerged, with numerous women coming forward with accusations of sexual misconduct. This led to Weinstein being dismissed from his company and expelled from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The movement has since led to a wave of similar allegations against high-profile men in various industries, including entertainment, politics, and business.

Impact

The MeToo movement has had a significant impact on society and culture globally. It has led to increased awareness and discussion about sexual harassment and assault. Many institutions, including workplaces and universities, have implemented new policies and procedures to address and prevent sexual misconduct. The movement has also sparked legal changes, with some jurisdictions enacting laws to protect victims and punish perpetrators of sexual abuse.

Criticism and Challenges

While the MeToo movement has been praised for bringing attention to sexual misconduct and empowering survivors, it has also faced criticism. Some argue that the movement has led to a culture of public shaming where individuals are judged and punished without due process. Others have raised concerns about the movement's inclusivity, pointing out that it must better represent women of color, transgender people, and those outside the entertainment industry and other high-profile sectors.

See Also

• Feminism
• Social movement
• Sexual harassment
• Sexual assault