Jan 14, 2018 1 min read

In response to Barry Andrews wondering why accusations of sexual misconduct have resurfaced against former state Sen. Tim Solobay in his Jan. 5 letter, I liken it to the final straw and say, “Why not now?”

Reporting sexual harassment or entering into nondisclosure settlements has not resolved the problem. Silence only allows harassment to perpetuate.

Whether it took one person or more to shine the spotlight, we can’t deny that victims are now empowered. In 2017, victims of harassment came forward in large numbers. The “Me Too” and “Time’s Up” movements created a platform and a support system.

Due to awareness, we are changing our attitudes regarding what behavior is acceptable, and people are saying loud and clear that sexual harassment is not acceptable. Women and men will continue to come forward no matter how long it takes.

I encourage all to focus on the issue and not the time frame.

Brenda F. Bennett

Fredericktown