Intention is Irrelevant
Trigger Warning: This article contains information of, and references to, sexual assault.
As much as I try not to get too sucked in to news articles and political happenings, the internet algerythm has been bombarding me with click-bait for Governorr Andrew Cuomo’s recent sexual harassment allegations. Like many others, I’ve almost become numb to the news that another powerful man in our society has forced himself on a woman working under him. However, there was a part of me that felt hopeful that someone may finally handle the situation with the care and attention it deserves; I was sadly mistaken.
When I finally decided to click on one of the many articles, I was curious as to what sort of response Cuomo would have. Would it be another denial, turning it into a “he said, she said” argument? Would he own the behavior and admit that he had taken advantage of his position of power? Would this finally be the shift we needed to see?
“...I acted in a way that made people uncomfortable. It was unintentional, and I truly and deeply apologize for it.” He shared about being sorry and embarrassed. After his statement, he asked that people “wait for the facts.”
I didn’t read any further. I was disgusted. Another example of avoiding accountability. You acted inappropriately and used your power to your advantage. Your actions were intentional; you were simply hoping for a different outcome. By asking that the public “wait for the facts”, you’re negating any sorry excuse for an apology and saying “hang tight while we find a way to victim-blame these women.”
Statements about intentions are irrelevant here. His real intention was to make these women feel “special”, because a powerful man gave them attention. He intended for them to be flattered and feel lucky. It was only when he realized that his fantasy was not coming true, that he decided to say he never meant anything by it, and that ultimately these women are liars.
And to be clear, flirting and harassment are NOT the same thing. We hear people saying that because of #metoo they can no longer flirt, or even Governor’s Cuomo’s statement about people being more sensitive now and that THIS is why he needs to change. Flirting is mutual, two-way, subtle, playful, and respectful. Asking someone about their sex life, especially at work? Not flirting, just harassment. And it’s not that people are now “more sensitive” and this is why the behavior should change. That behavior was always wrong, but now more people are feeling empowered to take a stand and say this is not okay.
This is why people with less power are targeted. Women, minorities, people with disabilities...because their voices still don’t matter as much in today’ society.
-Jordann Mason
Community Outreach Director