Sexual harassment is a problem for all industries
Finally, sexual harassment is out of style, but it’s still present in the fashion industry along with many other workplaces. With the recent unveiling of several sexual harassment accusations of Harvey Weinstein followed by the #MeToo movement, many much needed conversations have been started. This has allowed women of all walks of life to come out and talk about their own experiences with sexual harassment, exposing how big of an issue sexual harassment and assault is.
Sexual harassment occurs in all different areas and workplaces to all different people, but a huge one is in the fashion industry. Many women who are either in or trying to be a part of fashion deal with harassment or assault, including models, designers, stylists, buyers, etc. Unfortunately, many high positions in fashion are held by men which causes a lot of struggle for equality. When women began to come out with stories of harassment in the workplace, there seemed to be an obvious pattern: many of the accused harassers were superiors or had some sort of power over the victims. In situations like these, the victim felt trapped for this reason. They felt helpless because if they tried to do anything, they’d lose their job, job offer, or get a bad rap in the community.
Sexual harassment in the fashion industry consists of but is not limited to nonconsensual physical acts, not providing an adequate changing area for models, pressuring models to go topless or nude, publishing nudity without the model’s consent, being bullied after saying no to doing something that was requested of you, inappropriate emails, phone calls, etc. These acts should not be brushed off or ignored because it’s “no big deal.” The more people sweep these incidents under the rug, the more normalized it becomes. Finally, industries and individuals are starting to realize this.
Cameron Russell, an American fashion model and activist has done a great job speaking out on these issues by opening up about her experiences and calling other models to speak out when they’re not being treated fairly. She even encouraged other models to share their experiences using the hashtag #MyJobShouldNotIncludeAbuse. Women have also started sending her their sexual assault/harassment stories through Instagram Direct Messaging, which she has started posting to share their stories anonymously.
Sexual harassment and assault is not just an issue in Hollywood or in the fashion industry and it doesn’t happen to just women. If you have been sexually assaulted, know that you’re not alone and there is help readily available. If you want to speak to someone about your assault call 800.656.HOPE (4673) to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider near you.
