From #MeToo to #NoMore: How to end sexual harassment in government

Lauren Green was pursuing a promising career as a communications director on Capitol Hill when her career took a nosedive. She lost her job, moved back home and had to make ends meet by babysitting. The reason? She accused her boss, a congressman, of sexual harassment.

Wendy Doyle, Women's Foundation President & CEO

Warned that she would be “blackballed” for speaking out and told even by friends that she would never work in Washington, D.C., again, Lauren experienced repercussions for speaking out that were swift and all-encompassing.

Like countless other women who have courageously come forward to share their #MeToo stories, Lauren’s experience demonstrates the way sexual harassment can have a devastating impact not only on a woman’s physical and emotional well-being, but on her career path as well.

Every instance of sexual harassment, especially when it is perpetrated by elected officials entrusted with political leadership, is a setback for gender equity and opportunity — and a harmful breach of the public’s trust.

As an organization that works to address the underrepresentation of women in public service, the Women’s Foundation has seen first-hand how sexual harassment contributes to a self-perpetuating cycle.

Hostile work environments have a deterrent effect on women’s civic participation, which means many state capitols continue to be dominated by men — and overly tolerant of inappropriate behavior.

A survey by The Associated Press found that one-third of all state legislatures do not require lawmakers to participate in sexual harassment training and that most legislative bodies do not conduct independent, external investigations.

So how can we combat sexual harassment and marshal the political will to change the culture that enables it?

At the Women’s Foundation, we believe in a collaborative approach, one that’s informed by research and laser-focused on practical, proven solutions.

Last year, after gathering input from advocates, legal experts and stakeholders, we submitted a set of recommendations to the Kansas Legislature. They included:

• Requiring elected officials, legislative staff, interns and lobbyists to actively participate in an annual training on civil discourse, cultural competence and sexual harassment;
• Providing for independent, outside legal counsel to conduct sexual harassment investigations;
• Allowing victims to report their allegations anonymously;
• Establishing a non-fraternization policy for elected officials, legislative staff, interns and lobbyists;
• Banning arbitration and limiting mediation; and
• Increasing the number of women in leadership roles.

In both Jefferson City and Topeka, we’ve found willing partners in this effort. In Kansas, Gov. Jeff Colyer and state Sen. Susan Wagle have acted on our recommendations and taken steps to prevent sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation across state government.

In Missouri, we have worked with Attorney General Josh Hawley and House Speaker Todd Richardson to strengthen sexual harassment policies and provide a safe, respectful and professional environment for everyone who works for — or interacts with — state government.

And in both states, our program to increase the number of women serving on civic boards and commissions has seen exponential growth. Launched in 2014, our Appointments Project has received more than 1,000 applications and placed more than 80 women on publicly-appointed boards and commissions.

Leaders on both sides of the aisle are recognizing that having more women at the decision-making table not only helps combat sexual harassment but also improves policy outcomes and improves governance.

Make no mistake, sexual harassment is a systemic problem — and systemic problems rarely get solved overnight. That is why a sustained commitment is essential. Quick fixes won’t work. Thoughtful, forward-looking solutions will.

For many of us, this is also deeply personal. As someone who has dedicated my career to advancing equity and opportunity for women, I know how important it is that we get this right for the next generation of women and beyond.

All our efforts to advance equity — from equal pay to paid leave — will falter if women aren’t being treated with basic dignity and respect in the workplace.

So for Lauren and all the others who have shared your stories: thank you. You are making it possible for this work to happen. And with continued persistence I’m confident we can make meaningful progress toward ending sexual harassment and promoting equity and opportunity for all women.

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using
research, philanthropy, and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information
about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

Women’s Foundation to Work With Attorney General to Combat Sexual Harassment

JEFFERSON CITY – Women’s Foundation announced today that it will partner with Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley on a comprehensive review of existing discrimination and harassment policies in the Capitol and across state government.

The Attorney General’s Office and the Women’s Foundation jointly issued a set of general principles that will help guide this statewide review. These guideposts draw on the Women’s Foundation’s past experience advising government entities on discrimination and sexual harassment best practices.

“Every instance of sexual harassment is a barrier to women’s political and professional advancement,” said Wendy Doyle, President & CEO of the Women’s Foundation. “As an organization that is dedicated to increasing the number of women in leadership positions, we’ve seen first-hand how sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation can deter women from civic engagement. We look forward to continuing to be a resource for the Attorney General’s Office, the Missouri General Assembly and all public officials working to combat sexual harassment and discrimination in state government.”

In December, the Women’s Foundation issued recommendations for preventing and combating sexual harassment in the Kansas Legislature. Women’s Foundation also worked with Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer on his executive order to eliminate sexual harassment across state government.

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 and employers understand how to best prevent and report sexual harassment.

The guideposts announced today with Attorney General Hawley are:

1.    Policies should clearly define harassment, discrimination, and retaliation and should provide concrete examples of prohibited conduct.

2.    Policies should establish clear and expeditious procedures for reporting, investigating, and acting on allegations of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation.

3.    Policies should provide victims with channels for submitting anonymous complaints to alleviate possible concerns regarding retaliation.

4.    Policies should provide for specific, predictable, and prompt consequences for employees found to have engaged in harassment, discrimination, or retaliation.

5.    Policies should provide strong checks to prevent retaliation against those who report possible harassment, discrimination, or retaliation.

6.    Policies should provide regular review and updating of employment policies.

7.    Agencies that employ interns should have policies that specifically address issues relating to employee conduct toward interns.

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy, and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

Kansas Legislature Passes Updated Sexual Harassment Policy

TOPEKA, Kan. - Today the Kansas Legislative Coordinating Council passed an updated sexual harassment policy that incorporates recommendations proposed by the Women’s Foundation, including providing for anonymous reporting by victims and independent investigations of sexual harassment allegations. 

Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO, issued the following statement: 

“While there is still more work to be done, this updated sexual harassment policy is a good first step and we thank Senator Wagle and her colleagues for their work on this important issue. Strong leaders deliver results, and we look forward to continuing to work with legislative leaders to build on this progress and ensure the State Capitol provides the safe and professional workplace Kansans expect and deserve.”

In December, Women’s Foundation issued recommendations for combating sexual harassment in the Kansas Legislature. 

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using
research, philanthropy, and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information
about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

Women’s Foundation Recognized for Work in Expanding Paid Leave

Kansas City, Mo. - Today the Women’s Foundation was recognized by Mayor Sly James and the City of Kansas City, Missouri City Council with a resolution honoring their efforts to enact paid family and medical leave.  

Mayor James also revealed plans to add an additional week to the City’s paid parental leave policy. City employees will now have access to seven weeks of paid leave. 

“It is an honor to be recognized for our work in furthering paid family leave,” said Women’s Foundation President and CEO, Wendy Doyle. “Taking time off to bond a child shouldn’t mean going without a paycheck and we know from our research that when organizations adopt more family-friendly policies like paid leave, employee retention and long-term productivity improve. We commend Mayor James for his continued commitment to making Kansas City a great place to live, work and raise a family.” 

More information about Women’s Foundation’s paid leave research and policy solutions is available at: http://www.womens-foundation.org/paid-leave/ 

City of Kansas City, Missouri Mayor, Sly James, Women's Foundation President & CEO, Wendy Doyle and Vice President of Research & Policy And General Counsel,  Kendall Seal

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using
Research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information
about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

Women's Foundation Lauds Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer's Executive Order on Eliminating Sexual Harassment in State Government

TOPEKA, KS - Today the Women's Foundation commended Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer for issuing an executive order to combat sexual harassment and discrimination in state government.

Gov. Colyer, who took office Wednesday, Jan. 31, consulted with the Women's Foundation's and utilized their recommendations in his executive order. 

"We are pleased Governor Colyer is taking action during the very first week of his administration to combat sexual harassment and ensure a safe and professional workplace culture across state government," said Women's Foundation President and CEO, Wendy Doyle. "His decisive leadership sends a clear message that sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation will no longer be tolerated under the Capitol dome or anywhere in state government. Governor Colyer has taken a significant step to stop misconduct and promote equity and opportunity."  

In December 2017, the Women's Foundation issued recommendations at the request of Senate President Susan Wagle (R-Wichita). They were developed with input from legal experts, advocates, and community stakeholders following media reports of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior by Kansas state legislators. 

The Women's Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

Women’s Foundation Statement Commending Governor Colyer’s Commitment to Fighting Sexual Harassment

TOPEKA, Kan. - The Women’s Foundation today congratulated Governor Jeff Colyer on his swearing-in as Kansas’ 47th governor and commended his pledge to “insist on an environment of openness, honesty and respect and without harassment, especially in this building.”

“We congratulate Governor Colyer and applaud his commitment to creating a safe and respectful work environment free of sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation,” said Women’s Foundation President and CEO, Wendy Doyle. “We commend Governor Colyer for setting the tone that a culture of sexual harassment will not be tolerated during his administration. We look forward to working with his administration to address what remains a pervasive issue across many industries, including state government.”

In December, Women’s Foundation issued recommendations for combating sexual harassment in the Kansas Legislature. 

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.

Women’s Foundation Scores Topeka Appointment

Over 80 women have been appointed to boards and commissions
 

TOPEKA Kan. - Women’s Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Ashley Canas to the City of Topeka Human Relations Commission. Canas was appointed by the outgoing administration of Mayor Wolgast. 

“Ashley is a passionate leader and has a strong professional background,” said Wendy Doyle, President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation. “The Appointments Project helps to amplify the voices of all women, especially women of color who are severely underrepresented in public service.”

The Appointments Project is an initiative that aims to increase the number of women serving on local and statewide boards and commissions in Kansas and Missouri.  After only three years, the Appointments Project has had more than 800 applicants and successfully placed 84 women on boards and commissions in Missouri and Kansas. The Appointments Project is statewide in Missouri and Kansas and in Kansas City, Springfield, St. Louis, St. Louis County and Jackson County, Missouri, as well as Kansas City, Olathe, Topeka, and Wichita, Kansas.

Canas is a former Tedx Lincoln, NE speaker; and she has over a decade of marketing, sales, and event management experience. She is a Bellevue University graduate with degrees in Behavioral Sciences and Leadership. She also has a Master’s in Ministerial Leadership from Southeastern University. Canas plays an active role in her community, too.  She volunteers at a local high school as a business advisor for their youth entrepreneurship program. The program hosts an activity called Shark Tank, and it is based off the television show. Canas serves as a judge and helps seniors create business plans. She teaches workforce development courses that assist people looking for jobs, resume drafting, and job interview preparation.  

“While on the Commission I hope to assist with building a community where all feel valued, especially women and children,” said Canas.  “I hope to spark interest from multicultural communities to build more diverse boards.” 

The City of Topeka Human Relations Commission conducts outreach; sponsors educational activities that promote justice and cultural understanding; and improves relationships among all community residents. 

The Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change.  More information about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.

Women’s Foundation Applauds Passage of Bill to Reduce Licensing Regulations on Hair Braiding

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Women’s Foundation today applauded the Missouri House of Representatives for its initial passage of House Bill 1500, which would allow hair braiders to earn a living without obtaining a cosmetology license.  
 
“Hair braiding is a prime example of how some occupational licensing requirements can restrict economic opportunity and make it harder for women to get ahead,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President and CEO. “We commend Representative Shamed Dogan and Missouri House Speaker Richardson for moving quickly on this sensible legislation that will allow hair braiders to earn a living in Missouri without having to go through the unnecessary time and expense of obtaining a cosmetology license.”  
 
Women’s Foundation research conducted in partnership with the University of Missouri Truman School of Public Policy has found that occupational licensing, while intended to protect the safety and well-being of the public, can often create unnecessary barriers for women entrepreneurs by restricting entry and re-entry into professions, reducing employment, and creating economic inequity.
 
This research has informed a number of potential solutions put forward by Women’s Foundation, including reducing or waiving fees, requiring a cost-benefit analysis before any new occupational licensing board is created and periodic reviews to determine if they are still necessary.

Other occupational licensing reform bills supported by the Women’s Foundation include: HB 1928, SB 677, SB 835, HB 1261, HB 1710 and HB 1719. 
 

​​​​​​​Women’s Foundation Statement Regarding Allegations Against Gov. Eric Greitens

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Women’s Foundation issued the following statement regarding allegations against Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens. 

“These allegations are deeply troubling and Missourians are owed answers. No woman should ever be subjected to the acts alleged against the Governor.  We urge everyone, including members of the press, to show respect for the alleged victim and her privacy. Moving forward, Women’s Foundation remains committed to promoting equity and opportunity for women of all ages.”

Women’s Foundation Celebrates Introduction of Missouri Earned Family and Medical Leave Act; Releases New Research on Paid Family Leave

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Women’s Foundation today celebrated the introduction of the Missouri Earned Family and Medical Leave Act (House Bill 1974) and released new research detailing the benefits of paid family leave (PFL). 

The research, commissioned in partnership with the University of Missouri Institute of Public Policy, found that PFL programs prevent families from falling into poverty, reduce reliance on public assistance, raise retention of talented employees, and increase worker productivity as well as employers’ stock prices.

“Our research has shown that paid family leave has real and far-reaching benefits for families and businesses,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO. “Allowing Missourians to care for children and loved-ones without sacrificing their income is a win-win – strengthening families, strengthening businesses, and growing the economy. We commend Representatives Hannah Kelly for introducing this family-friendly legislation and urge the General Assembly to a paid family and medical leave bill without delay.” 

The bill, introduced by state Representative Hannah Kelly, proposes a statewide ballot initiative to make Missouri the sixth state nationwide, after California, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Washington, to pass PFL legislation. If approved by Missouri voters, it would grant eligible employees up to 8 weeks of leave per 12 month period to bond with a new child, to care for a seriously ill family member, to care for their own serious illness, or to “assume any familial responsibility because a [family member] is on or called to active duty.” Employees would contribute 0.25% of their weekly pay beginning in 2020 and would be able to receive the 67% wage replacement leave in 2021. 

The Women’s Foundation also voiced support for the two other paid family leave bills that have been introduced: Senate Bill 607, sponsored by Senator Jill Schupp, and House Bill 1956, sponsored by Representative Tracy McCreery.

In addition to detailing the benefits of paid family leave, Women’s Foundation research provided an analysis of estimated paid leave payouts, based on the experiences of other states. Statistical inferences based on paid leave programs in New Jersey and California applied to Missouri demographics indicate lower potential payouts than previous estimates.

“These other states have demonstrated that strong families and strong businesses go hand-in-hand,” said Rep. Hannah Kelly. “The evidence is overwhelming that paid leave programs benefit everyone – helping children and families thrive, while giving businesses a stronger and more productive workforce. Given the example set by Governor Greitens and Speaker Richardson for their state employees, I’m confident that legislators on both sides of the aisle will join us in working to establish an earned family and medical leave program that works for all Missourians.”

Women’s Foundation has been working to educate public officials on the importance of paid family and medical leave and encouraging them to extend the benefit to their employees. As a result, five out of six statewide executive branch officials in Missouri, along with the House of Representatives and four independent executive agencies have now adopted paid parental leave policies for their state employees. 

In March Gov. Eric Greitens signed an executive order granting paid parental leave to employees in the governor's office or in agencies controlled by his appointees. Since then, four other statewide elected officials and the House of Representatives have followed suit. As a result, employees of nearly every state agency are now able to take paid time off following the birth or adoption of a child.

Current public opinion strongly supports some sort of paid family and medical leave program, with 80% of the public favoring paid leave for maternal leave and serious medical conditions and 60-70% favoring paternal bonding leave and leave to care for seriously ill family members. About 35% of the country believes expanding paid leave should be a top government priority.

A copy of the research brief is available here. 

Women’s Foundation promotes equity and opportunity for women of all ages, using research, philanthropy and policy solutions to make meaningful change. More information about the organization can be found at www.Womens-Foundation.org.
 

Watch the virtual press conference here. 

Women's Foundation today celebrated the introduction of the Missouri Earned Family and Medical Leave Act (House Bill 1974) and released new research detailing the benefits of paid family leave (PFL).