U of R president says #metoo

In recent days, many women have begun publicly discussing the sexual harassment they have experienced, and it has caused me to reflect on similar experiences that I have had. Even revisiting them in my mind brings me a great deal of discomfort.

I feel guilt and shame.

Guilt, that I allowed myself to get into situations where I was harassed, touched and hit. Shame, about the actual experiences.

My first experience of sexual harassment took place when I was 14. Others followed in later years, and my most recent one was four years ago. I have never shared them because of all the emotions that surface just thinking about them. But all the media attention on this issue is causing me to challenge myself and push back against the emotions of guilt and shame that I feel.

It also makes me think about all the women who are experiencing sexual harassment today, and will be tomorrow. Because we do not talk enough about the experiences we have dealt with (or as in my case, have NOT dealt with), I worry that women do not feel it is appropriate to bring up these situations.

I am making a vow that I will start talking about my personal experiences. I will choose carefully when and where, as I still feel fear of judgment.

I need to say that sexual harassment is alive and well, affecting girls and women of all ages. We need to expose it and confront the men who engage in this behaviour. It is challenging because there are so many emotions evoked when dealing with these situations. But it is time for me to join others, face that challenge, stand up, and say #metoo. Vianne Timmons, president and vice-chancellor, University of Regina