The Me Too Movement has attracted media attention, triggered emotions, exposed.
Has the Me Too Movement made a positive difference in people lives?
My friend Antohny Signorelli wrote this article and is taking action to make a positive change.
Consent and #MeToo
I was sitting in a seminar the other night when woman spoke a truth I had not considered: “Refusing consent can trigger a man’s rage,” she said. And when rage enters the picture, real violence is more likely to occur.
Wow.
Consent has been a leading topic of discussion in the wake of #MeToo, and on the face of it, the theory or practice of consent makes total sense. Before physical touching, physical flirting, or sexual behavior, a woman needs to give her consent or a man should not be acting. This “rule” gives the woman control over her own body and it portrays a respect between man and woman, no matter their level of intimacy. From office hugs to sexual intercourse, consent can be the golden answer. Teach men to get it before they act, and women will be empowered and protected.
Except, this woman at the seminar shined a light on the problem. For a woman, even consent isn’t a real protection against harassment. Consent does not necessarily mean desire; it doesn’t mean choice. Too often it is actually capitulation, and that means it doesn’t actually protect women from anything.
So, what does consent really mean? Can we build on the notion of consent and seek choice or desire by a woman, rather than mere permission? Or, does this notion create an even more slanted field with unintended consequences?
Visit www.MenandMeToo.com for more information on what you can do to help end the scourge of workplace sexual harassment and other abuse against women while expanding the depth and vitality of your own life. Join us!
— Anthony Signorelli
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