We must not be pacified by people and organizations who utter the rhetoric of justice without the history to back it up.
When I learned about Times Up involvement in former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s sexual harassment allegations, I was disappointed but not surprised.
Few people or institutions are naturally benevolent. Each day we wake up, we must decide to do the right thing, after first determining what “right” is for us and the people who look up to us. But after the decision or the intention to do right, we must ensure there are mechanisms in place to hold ourselves accountable.
Because organizations are made up of imperfect people and have a profit or power motive, I do not believe organizations, much less companies, are naturally benevolent. I wasn’t shocked that an organization supposedly committed to sexual abuse survivors was embroiled in a scandal for not centering survivors.
Most organizations are driven by a need to raise funds, remain competitive, cultivate and maintain power. Doing the right thing then is nice, but it is not a compulsory driver for many organizations. That is not to suggest that all companies and organizations are bad. I am suggesting that mere intention is useless without accountability.
Saying you despise racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia and classism is meaningless if there isn’t a system in place to ensure you and the people in your employ are treating all people with dignity and respect. And here’s the thing – dignity and respect are about more than just being nice or saying the right things in the presence of others.
To do right by others, companies must give them every opportunity to thrive. They musty pay living wage, support workers as they care for themselves and their families, be willing to share power, and create safe workplaces.
This is a reminder that we must not be pacified by people and organizations who utter the rhetoric of justice without the history to back it up. We need to move beyond talk and focus on actions.
Jennifer R. Farmer is the principal of Spotlight PR LLC. Check out our blog posts and subscribe for updates.