KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Women’s Foundation released the following statement today regarding reports of sexual harassment of interns and female staffers working at the Kansas Capitol:
“Sexual harassment is unacceptable – and the leaders in the Kansas legislature must take further steps to address these issues and ensure a safe environment for interns. As long as sexual harassment exists and is enabled in the Kansas State Capitol or anywhere else, that presents a barrier for women to advance professionally and to lead in the future. Instead of accepting sexual harassment as part of the culture in our state capitols, legislators should vehemently condemn sexual harassment and be advocates for victims.
As a response to similar issues in Missouri, Women’s Foundation partnered with Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCADSV), and Partners In Prevention, to create the Intern Resource Network to help Missouri’s interns understand how to best prevent and report sexual harassment. We stand ready to work with Kansas legislators and Capitol staff to ensure a safe and equitable working environment for all employees and interns.”
Learn more about the Intern Resource Portal here.
The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using philanthropy, research and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at www.womens-foundation.org.