Sex allegations morph into media crucifixions

What has happened to our public discourse? The insane muddle of news stories constantly berating and demanding the ouster of yet another public figure daily — almost hourly, it seems — and the discussion of the ramifications, consequences, motives and morals on sexual harassment has become too convoluted for any reasonable, objective person to decipher or to weigh in on. However, there is one aspect of the current discussion that we can all almost certainly agree on. This has been cathartic for our nation.

A catharsis is cleansing, a purification, a sense of release and freedom. We are all experiencing the realization that men are now “getting it.” Sexual harassment has been a term used for decades, but it was a dubious concept — something men had to “dance around” in an effort to ensure they weren’t doing it. Women have known it had a name, but also knew things weren’t getting any better. How wonderful it would have been had we possessed this understanding when Anita Hill testified against Justice Clarence Thomas and the air virtually crackled with the awesome power of truth.

But ground rules must be established. We must maintain reason and order, and stop media crucifixions. We can’t go back, bring every abuser to justice, nor prevent all future abuse. But we can say thanks

to God for the understanding that has emerged, and for all who realize this is a bipartisan issue. Elizabeth Hinesley, Delray Beach