#MeToo

By now, I am sure you all have been seeing posts on social media with the hash tag #metoo. These brave, strong survivors of sexual harassment and sexual assault are finally getting the chance to speak up about their experiences in only two simple words. This is one of the many ways that social media makes a difference.  Social media has ability to bring individuals who have things in common together, no matter their location, socioeconomic status or ethnicity. We have seen this in many ways, from the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge to the hash tag #BlackLivesMatter. The #metoo joins as a powerful campaign. The hash tag #metoo is eye-opening in that it allows us to see just how many men and women have experienced sexual harassment and assault, at least those who are speaking up about it.
The message the people posting the hashtag are sending is that they all are standing up in solidarity. Social media can bring people together but has the potential to leave people behind. A large criticism of the campaign is that survivors do not need to share their story to be validated. Those who stay silent are just as valid. 
The call to action for the men and women who have been seeing the hash tag #metoo is that they need to show support through social media to let these victims know that their stories are not being ignored. These individuals deserve to know their worth and know that they are not alone. This issue can no longer be ignored and with the help of media, victims can cope together with the support from everyone else.

​By: Megan Rubinger