The number of sexual assault and misconduct complaints being raised from the entertainment industry is shocking.

The allegations voiced have been everything from rape to indecent exposure. From unwanted advances to comments with heavy sexual connotations.

There’s a perception that there is a “mightier than thou” attitude in the entertainment industry.

The behaviour currently being called out confirms those thoughts. We must also not be deceived in thinking this issue is restricted to one industry.

Unfortunately the behaviour isn’t a surprise. 

It is, however, abhorrent and repulsive to hear these accusations happening from people in positions of power.

This is happening to women, who mostly young, are trying to develop their career. Catch a break in a demanding and competitive industry. Instead, they are being preyed upon by those who can and will influence their careers.

Even more distressing is the fact it took an accumulation of reports for the first person to be exposed for this pattern of disrespectful and possibly criminal behaviour.

The issue was first highlighted when the New York Times published allegations against entertainment mogul Harvey Weinstein. 

Since that report more than 65 women have voiced accusations against Weinstein.

Many people said, when revealing the assault, that they said “no” and chose to never work him again. Others said “no” and had to work with him again. Some allegedly didn’t have that “no” heard.

The reports date back more than a decade – some even 20 years.

Which means it has taken women that long to have their voices heard. Or feel safe to do so.

Thankfully people are listening. It’s a good start that we are talking about the issue due to the allegations that are being revealed.

It’s important for victims to know they have a voice and for perpetrators to know the behaviour is not acceptable under any circumstance and repercussions will be severe.